Intermediate
Technical
IVT
embryonic lethal
A genetic condition that causes death during embryonic or fetal development.
Full Definition
An embryonic lethal refers to a genetic mutation or chromosomal abnormality that is incompatible with survival during embryonic or fetal development, resulting in spontaneous abortion or intrauterine fetal death. These conditions are significant in reproductive genetics because they may present as recurrent pregnancy loss, reduced fertility, or skewed sex ratios in offspring. Some mutations that are lethal in homozygous form may be carried by healthy heterozygous parents, creating complex counseling scenarios regarding recurrence risks and reproductive options.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as a compound adjective (embryonic-lethal mutation).
In Context
- "The couple's history of recurrent pregnancy loss suggested the presence of an embryonic lethal mutation." — Genetic counseling report
- "Homozygous embryonic lethal conditions typically result in a 25% reduction in expected live births." — Reproductive genetics textbook
Also known as
lethal mutation
embryonic-lethal allele
Contrasted with
viable mutation
neutral variant
Don't confuse with
embryonic arrest
implantation failure