In Class Notes 9/5: X-Linked Disorders and Genetic Vulnerability

X-Linked Disorders

X-Linked Disorders

Genetic disorders carried on the X chromosome, making males more vulnerable due to having only one X chromosome.

Hemophilia

A bleeding disorder where the blood doesn't clot properly, an example of an X-linked disorder.

Color Blindness

A condition where a person has difficulty perceiving certain colors, classified as an X-linked disorder.

Genetic Expression

The process by which the information in a gene's DNA is converted into a functional product, such as a protein.

Dominant Gene

A gene that will always be expressed if an individual has one copy of it.

Recessive Gene

A gene that is only expressed if an individual has two copies of it.

Carrier

An individual who has a recessive gene that is not visible in their phenotype but can pass it on to offspring.

Punnett Square

A tool used to predict the probability of certain traits being passed down to offspring.

Identical Twins

Twins formed from a single fertilized egg that splits into two embryos, sharing the same genotype.

Fraternal Twins

Twins formed from two separate eggs fertilized by different sperm, genetically similar to any other siblings.

Germinal Period

The first 1-14 days of prenatal development characterized by rapid cell division and growth.

Embryonic Period

The stage from 3-8 weeks of prenatal development where cells start to differentiate and brain development begins.

Fetal Period

The stage from 9 weeks to birth marked by rapid growth and development of the fetus.

Folic Acid

A crucial vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy and is essential for brain and spinal cord development.

Prenatal Tests

Tests conducted during pregnancy to identify potential issues, including blood tests, ultrasounds, and amniocentesis.

Gestational Diabetes

A condition during pregnancy where the body struggles to manage sugar levels, detected through glucose testing.

Chromosomal Anomalies

Changes in the number or structure of chromosomes that can lead to fetal development issues.

Single Gene Disorders

Genetic disorders caused by a mutation in a single gene.

Polygenic Disorders

Genetic disorders that involve multiple genes.

Preterm

Babies born before 35 weeks of gestation, often facing developmental challenges.

Small for Gestational Age (SGA)

Babies born at or after 36 weeks but weighing less than expected, potentially due to prenatal issues.