cDNA
noun
ˈsē-ˌdē-(ˌ)en-ˈā 
ˌsē-
: a DNA that is complementary to a given RNA which serves as a template for synthesis of the DNA in the presence of reverse transcriptase
Examples of cDNA in a Sentence
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To delineate the murine C3aR coding sequence, gene structure, 5′-flanking region, and chromosome location, cDNA and genomic clones encoding the mouse C3a receptor were isolated, characterized, and used in fluorescence in situ hybridization experiments.
—
Kirstin R.w. Matthews, STAT, 3 Feb. 2026
In 1985, George Kuo invented that cloning strategy by reverse transcribing mRNA from NANBH positive serum into cDNA.
—William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
The ruling that cDNA is potentially patentable allows companies to still reap financial rewards from isolating new genes.
—Lisa Raffensperger, Discover Magazine, 14 June 2013
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Kirstin R.w. Matthews, STAT, 3 Feb. 2026
In 1985, George Kuo invented that cloning strategy by reverse transcribing mRNA from NANBH positive serum into cDNA.
—William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
The ruling that cDNA is potentially patentable allows companies to still reap financial rewards from isolating new genes.
—Lisa Raffensperger, Discover Magazine, 14 June 2013
Cite this Entry
“CDNA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cDNA. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
cDNA
noun
: a DNA that is complementary to a given RNA which serves as a template for synthesis of the DNA in the presence of reverse transcriptase
called also complementary DNA
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