Glossary of Genetic Terminology

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L

LINKAGE:
The tendency for genes or segments of DNA which are located close together on the same chromosome to be inherited together.

LOCUS:
The position on a chromosome of a segment of a gene .

LONG QT SYNDROME (LQTS):
A heart condition that may have a genetic component. In individuals with long QT syndrome, it takes longer for the electrical signal to activate and inactivate the lower chambers of their heart (the ventricles); described as a longer Q-T interval on the ECG (electrocardiogram) - they have long QT syndrome (LQTS; see Genetics Fact Sheet 55).

LYSOSOME:
A small body which is found in most cells, but is particularly frequent in the cells of the liver and kidney. Lysosomes contain important enzymes.