neofunctionalization

noun

The development of a new function of an existing group of genes by means of mutation.

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Meanings

nounneofunctionalization (countable and uncountable, plural neofunctionalizations)

plural neofunctionalizations

  1. countableuncountablebiologyThe development of a new function of an existing group of genes by means of mutation.

    Therefore, BcMF26a/b may be the result of neofunctionalization during evolution.

    2015 July 9, “BcMF26a and BcMF26b Are Duplicated Polygalacturonase Genes with Divergent Expression Patterns and Functions in Pollen Development and Pollen Tube Formation in Brassica campestris”, in PLOS ONE, →DOI

Origin

From neo- + functionalization.

Full word history & related roots →
Cite this entry
APA

neofunctionalization. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/neofunctionalization

MLA

“neofunctionalization.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/neofunctionalization. Accessed November 3, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “neofunctionalization,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/neofunctionalization.

Source: neofunctionalization on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.