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Analog

1. One of two organs or parts in different species of animals or plants which differ in structure or development but are similar in function.

2. A compound that resembles another in structure but is not necessarily an isomer (e.g., 5-fluorouracil is an analog of thymine); analogs are often used to block enzymatic reactions by combining with enzymes (e.g., isopropyl thiogalactoside vs. Lactose).

Synonym: analogue.

Origin: g. Analogos, proportionate