Suffix "-genesis": Development, Formation, and Metabolic Pathways

The suffix -genesis (from Greek genesis, “origin, birth, formation”) denotes the process of coming into being, development, or synthesis.

Biological Development

• Embryogenesis – embryo formation
• Organogenesis – organ formation
• Gametogenesis – gamete formation

Metabolic/Nutritional Pathways

• Glycogenesis – glucose → glycogen synthesis
• Gluconeogenesis – non-carbohydrate → glucose synthesis
• Lipogenesis – fatty acid/triglyceride synthesis
• Proteinogenesis – protein synthesis (translation)
• Ketogenesis – ketone body formation

In all cases, -genesis signifies a constructive, synthetic process.