Auxotroph

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-001016",
  "term": "Auxotroph",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A mutant organism that has lost the ability to synthesize an essential nutrient, such as an amino acid or vitamin, and therefore requires that nutrient to be supplied in its growth medium. This genetic defect arises from a mutation in a gene encoding an enzyme involved in the biosynthetic pathway of the required compound. Auxotrophs are widely used in genetic research and microbial assays.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2007, 79, 1153. 'Glossary of terms used in toxicology, 2nd edition (IUPAC Recommendations 2007)' on page 1173 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac200779071153)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/auxotroph/"
}