What is "polygene"

n. (context genetics English) A group of nonallelic genes that act together to produce phenotype variations

n. a gene that by itself has little effect on the phenotype but which can act together with others to produce observable variations

A polygene, multiple factor, multiple gene inheritance, or quantitative gene is a group of non- epistatic genes that together influence a phenotypic trait. The precise loci or identities of the non-allelic genes are often unknown to biologists. Advances in statistical methodology and high throughput sequencing are, however, allowing researchers to locate candidate genes for the trait. These genes are generally pleiotropic as well. The genes that contribute to type 2 diabetes are thought to be mostly polygenes. In July 2016, scientists reported identifying a set of 355 genes from the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA) of all organisms living on Earth.

Traits with polygenic determinism correspond to the classical quantitative characters, as opposed to the qualitative characters with monogenic or oligogenic determinism. In essence instead of two options, such as freckles or no freckles, there are many variations. Like the color of skin, hair, or even eyes.