vitellogenin

noun

vi·​tel·​lo·​gen·​in vī-ˌte-lō-ˈje-nən How to pronounce vitellogenin (audio)
: a precursor protein of egg yolk normally in the blood or hemolymph only of females that is used as a biomarker in vertebrates of exposure to environmental estrogens which stimulate elevated levels in males as well as females

Examples of vitellogenin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Researchers found high levels of vitellogenin—a protein involved in producing egg yolk—in many smallmouth bass. National Geographic, 3 Feb. 2016

Word History

Etymology

probably from vitellogenesis + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vitellogenin was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near vitellogenin

Cite this Entry

“Vitellogenin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vitellogenin. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

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