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1. (genetics) a segment of DNA that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain; it can include regions preceding and following the coding DNA as well as introns between the exons; it is considered a unit of heredity
   "cistrons were formerly called factors";
   - gene, factor

Derived forms: cistrons

Type of: sequence

Part of: chromosome, deoxyribonucleic acid, desoxyribonucleic acid, DNA

Encyclopedia: Cistron