Introduction

Genetic disorders occur when a gene or a combination of genes cause a health problem or medical condition. Inheritance patterns of genetic disorders are highly complex and can affect individuals in different ways. In this article, we will review the different types of inheritance patterns of genetic disorders and how they relate to an individual's genetic makeup.

Types of Inheritance Patterns

There are three major types of inheritance patterns of genetic disorders: autosomal recessive, autosomal dominant, and X-linked. Each type of inheritance has its own characteristics and implications for the individual affected.

Autosomal Recessive

In autosomal recessive inheritance, both parents must have a mutated gene for their child to be affected. In this type of inheritance, the mutated gene is not expressed in the parent, but is passed down to the child. If one parent has the mutated gene, the child will not be affected, but will be a carrier of the gene and can pass it down to future generations. Autosomal recessive inheritance is the most common type of inheritance pattern for genetic disorders. Examples of genetic disorders caused by autosomal recessive inheritance include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Tay-Sachs disease.

Autosomal Dominant

In autosomal dominant inheritance, only one parent needs to have the mutated gene for the child to be affected. This type of inheritance often leads to more severe symptoms than autosomal recessive inheritance. Examples of genetic disorders caused by autosomal dominant inheritance include Huntington’s Disease, Marfan Syndrome, and Neurofibromatosis.

X-Linked

In X-linked inheritance, the mutated gene is found on the X chromosome. This means that it is more likely to be passed down from a mother to her son than from a father to his son. X-linked inheritance is the most common type of inheritance pattern for genetic disorders caused by a single gene. Examples of genetic disorders caused by X-linked inheritance include hemophilia and Fragile X Syndrome.

Genetic Screening

Genetic screening is used to identify individuals who are at risk for certain genetic disorders. Genetic screening can be done prenatally or after birth. Pre-natal screening can be done through amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS). These tests are done to check for the presence of genetic disorders and to determine if the fetus is at risk for certain genetic disorders. After birth, genetic screening can be done through blood tests, physical exams, and genetic testing.

Conclusion

Inheritance patterns of genetic disorders can be complex and vary from person to person. It is important to understand the different types of inheritance patterns and how they relate to an individual’s genetic makeup. Genetic screening can be used to identify individuals who are at risk for certain genetic disorders and help them take the necessary steps to manage their condition.