restriction fragment length polymorphism: any variation in DNA between individuals revealed by restriction enzymes that cut DNA into fragments of different lengths in consequence of such variations. It is used forensically and in the diagnosis of hereditary disease
Also called: riflip
RFLP in American English
(ˈrɪfˌlɪp)
noun
restriction fragment length polymorphism: a fragment of DNA, cut by a restrictionenzyme, that is different in length for each genetically related group and is usedto trace family relationships
Also called: riflip
Word origin
[1985–90]This word is first recorded in the period 1985–90. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: Human Genome Project, antisense, codependent, cohousing, neural network