Genetics
Pleiotropy
When a single gene affects multiple phenotypic traits. Changes to pleiotropic genes have cascading effects throughout the organism.
Biological Context
A gene affecting body size might also affect heart rate, lifespan, and reproductive timing. Pleiotropy constrains evolution because mutations that improve one trait may harm others. It explains why some traits seem stuck together and why evolutionary change can be slow.
Business Application
Business pleiotropy: when one change affects many outcomes. Pricing changes affect revenue, customer mix, brand perception, and competitive positioning simultaneously. Understanding pleiotropy helps predict side effects of strategic changes.