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Definition

Differences between the DNA sequences of individuals.

Use in clinical context

Genetic/genomic variation is an essential part of life. This variation contributes to differences between individuals from their appearance to how they may respond to a particular drug. Genetic/genomic variation can be the direct cause of rare health conditions, can result in an increased or decreased predisposition to developing common health problems, or it may have no discernible phenotypic effect at all.

Related terms

Phenotype

Last updated on 5th June, 2019