Definition of Inheritance, multifactorial

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Inheritance, multifactorial: A type of hereditary pattern seen when there is more than one genetic factor and, sometimes, environmental influence. Many common traits and many common diseases are multifactorial. Skin color, for example, is multifactorially determined, as is intelligence. Type 2 diabetes is multifactorial because it is due to inherited (genetic) factors but may also require environmental factors, such as obesity, to develop.