penetrance

[ pen-i-truhns ]

noun

, Genetics.

1. the frequency, expressed as a percentage, with which a particular gene produces its effect in a group of organisms. Compare expressivity ( def 2 ).

penetrance

/ ˈpɛnɪtrəns /

noun

1. genetics the percentage frequency with which a gene exhibits its effect

Word History and Origins

Origin of penetrance¹

First recorded in 1635–45; penetr(ant) + -ance

Word History and Origins

Origin of penetrance¹

C20: from penetr ( ant ) + -ance , on the model of German penetranz

Example Sentences

This has to do with the way penetrance is calculated, he says.

From The Daily Beast

“These measures of penetrance are likely artificially high,” says University of Cardiff medical geneticist David Cooper.

From The Daily Beast

If scientists identify 100 individuals with the same mutation, and 75 of them have disease, the penetrance is 75 percent.

From The Daily Beast