Meaning of CROSS LINKING

Biology Dictionary
	Definition:		The linking of the chains of a polymer to one another so that the polymer, as a network, becomes stronger and more resistant to being dissolved. The abnormal linking of two strands of DNA by covalent bonds (as opposed to the normal hydrogen bonds between base pairs), which can occur by exposure to X-rays. Such linking is a type of damage to the DNA molecule and must be repaired before the DNA can replicate and function properly again.