chimeric
Meaning of chimeric: Chimeric describes an organism, tissue, or molecule composed of genetically distinct cell populations or parts originating from more than one source.
Definition of chimeric
Chimeric describes something composed of genetically distinct parts that originated from more than one source. In a person, organ, or tissue, this means the presence of cells with a different genetic makeup than the rest of the body, which can occur naturally during early development or result from receiving cells, tissue, or an organ from another individual.
The term is also used in a laboratory setting, where a chimeric molecule, such as an antibody, is deliberately constructed by joining genetic material from two different sources, for example combining human and mouse antibody genes to produce a chimeric antibody used in certain medications.
Because a chimeric antibody or protein blends components from more than one species or source, this construction can influence how the molecule behaves in the body, including how it interacts with the immune system compared with a molecule derived entirely from a single species.
Used in a sentence
Genetic testing revealed a chimeric cell population following the patient's bone marrow transplant.
Good to know
A person can become a natural chimera through processes such as receiving a bone marrow transplant, which introduces donor derived cells that coexist with the recipient's own genetically distinct cells.
Word origin
Where “chimeric” comes from
Formed from Greek Chimaira, a mythological creature described as part lion, part goat, and part serpent, used to describe something made of combined, distinct parts.