gene amplification

Definition / meaning of gene amplification

An increase in the number of copies of a gene. There may also be an increase in the RNA and protein made from that gene. Gene amplification is common in cancer cells, and some amplified genes may cause cancer cells to grow or become resistant to anticancer drugs. Genes may also be amplified in the laboratory for research purposes.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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