Genetic mechanisms that allow GENES to be expressed at a similar level irrespective of their GENE DOSAGE. This term is usually used in discussing genes that lie on the SEX CHROMOSOMES. Because the sex chromosomes are only partially homologous, there is a different copy number, i.e., dosage, of these genes in males vs. females. In DROSOPHILA, dosage compensation is accomplished by hypertranscription of genes located on the X CHROMOSOME. In mammals, dosage compensation of X chromosome genes is accomplished by random X CHROMOSOME INACTIVATION of one of the two X chromosomes in the female.

Annotation

do not confuse with GENE DOSAGE

DUI

D004303 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0006764

Previous indexing

Sex Chromosomes (1968-1981); X Chromosome (1978-1981)

History note

2006 (1982)

Public note

2006; see DOSAGE COMPENSATION (GENETICS) 1982-2005