Hemikaryotic

/ˌhɛmɪˌkæriˈɑːtɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to, containing, or characterized by a hemikaryon or having only half the normal chromosome number.

Etymology

Adjective form of 'hemikaryon,' formed with the suffix '-ic' to describe the cellular condition of having reduced chromosome content.

Kelly Says

Hemikaryotic cells are cellular misfits—they have only half the genetic instructions they need, which is why they usually can't grow or reproduce properly, but laboratory study of hemikaryotic conditions has revealed crucial secrets about how chromosomes control life.

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