Perturbation (biology)
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A perturbation of a biological system is an alteration of function, induced by external or internal mechanisms. Biological systems can be perturbed through a number of means. Examples include:
- Environmental stimuli (temperature changes, osmotic shock, pressure changes)
- Small molecules that affect different biological pathways (drugs, toxins)
- Manipulation of gene function, such as gene knockout or transcript knockdown by RNA interference
- Motor movements when they encounter external disruptions, such a leg stepping into a hole and falling!
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