X-linked

[ eks-lingkt ]

adjective

, Genetics.

1. of or relating to a trait controlled by a gene or genes on the X chromosome.
2. of or relating to a gene on an X chromosome.

X-linked

/ ĕks′lĭngkt′ /

1. Relating to an inherited trait controlled by a gene on an X-chromosome. Orange fur color is an X-linked trait in cats.

Word History and Origins

Origin of X-linked¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

X-linked hypophosphatemia, as the name suggests, is a disease that is inherited on the X chromosome.

From New York Times

Typically over time evolution eliminates processes that make it harder for species to reproduce and thrive, and X-linked autoimmunity definitely hinders thriving.

From Scientific American

“Our favorite hypothesis is that it is an X-linked recessive trait,” Casanova says.

From Science Magazine

But as many as a quarter of X-linked genes can escape this inactivation, giving people with two copies of the chromosome a “double dosage” of the genetic instructions needed to fight disease.

From Washington Post

It is an X-linked recessive genetic disorder, which means that only boys are affected and the mother may be a healthy carrier of the disease.

From BBC