Medical Term:
chiasm
Pronunciation: kī′azm
Definition:
- An intersection or crossing of two lines.
- In anatomy, a decussation or crossing of two fibrous bundles, such as tendons, nerves, or tracts.
- In cytogenetics, the site at which two homologous chromosomes make contact (thus appearing to be crossed), enabling the exchange of genetic material during the prophase stage of meiosis.
Synonym(s): chiasmaTA
[G. chiasma]
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Examples: glitazone, GI cocktail, etc.
