Learning Objectives for Mendelian Genetics
hybrid
the process of combining different genetic material to create a hybrid organism or to a gene formed from two separate genes
dominant
version of gene apparent in heterozygote (dominant allele, upper case; P)
a trait that is expressed when only one copy of a dominant allele is present. This is because the dominant allele masks the effect of the other allele, which is called the recessive allele
recessive
only expressed when homozygous (recessive allele, lower case, p)
An individual inherits two alleles for each gene, one from each parent. A recessive trait is only expressed when both alleles are recessive, while a dominant trait is expressed when at least one allele is dominant
homozygous
2 alleles same
heterozygous
2 different alleles
trait
a specific characteristic of an organism, like eye color or height, which is determined by genes and can be passed down from parents to offspring
phenotype
the observable characteristics or traits of an organism, including its physical appearance, behavior, and biochemical properties, which are determined by its genotype (genetic makeup) as well as environmental influences
genotype
the complete genetic makeup of an organism, specifically the combination of alleles (variant forms of a gene) an individual carries at a particular genetic locus
true-breeding
an organism that, when self-fertilized or crossed with another organism of the same genotype, consistently produces offspring with the same phenotype
P generation
refers to the parental generation, meaning the first set of parents used in a genetic cross experiment, essentially the starting point for studying inheritance patterns in offspring; the "P" stands for "parent."
allele
one of multiple alternative forms of a gene at a specific locus on a chromosome, meaning that individuals inherit two alleles for each gene, one from each parent, which can vary slightly in their DNA sequence and potentially lead to different traits
locus
the specific location on a chromosome where a particular gene is found
F1
filial 1; and refers to the first generation of offspring that result from crossing two different types of parents
F2
the second generation of offspring produced from a cross between individuals of the first filial generation
proper nomenclature to indicate dominant trait and recessive trait
a dominant trait is typically represented by a capital letter, while a recessive trait is represented by a lowercase letter
an organism has the recessive phenotype, determine the genotype
If an organism exhibits a recessive phenotype, its genotype must be homozygous recessive (meaning it has two copies of the recessive allele) because a recessive trait can only be expressed when both alleles are recessive; therefore, you can definitively determine the genotype based on the recessive phenotype alone.
an organism has the dominant phenotype, determine the possible genotypes
If an organism exhibits the dominant phenotype, its possible genotypes are either homozygous dominant (both alleles are dominant) or heterozygous (one dominant allele and one recessive allele)
Explain which alleles will be in the eggs and in the sperm in single hybrid cross
Parent Genotype: Aa
Possible Alleles in Gametes:
Eggs: A, a
Sperm: A, a
This results in the following combinations in the offspring:
Offspring Genotypes: AA, Aa, Aa, aa.
Determine the genotype and phenotype of the F1
Genotype of F1: All offspring will be heterozygous (Aa).
Phenotype of F1: The phenotype will express the dominant trait associated with the dominant allele (A).
If A represents a dominant trait and a represents a recessive trait, the F1 generation will show the dominant phenotype.
Predict the ratios of genotypes and phenotypes in the F2 offspring using Punnett square analysis
Genotype Ratios:
AA: 1
Aa: 2
aa: 1
Phenotype Ratios:
Dominant phenotype: 3 (AA + Aa)
Recessive phenotype: 1 (aa)
Final Ratios:
Genotype: 1:2:1
Phenotype: 3:1
Given a homozygous recessive organism, predict the possible alleles in the gametes
both alleles are the same and recessive (e.g., "aa"). The possible alleles in the gametes will be the same as the alleles of the organism.
Possible alleles in the gametes:
a
Thus, all gametes produced will carry the recessive allele "a".
Given a homozygous dominant organism, predict the possible alleles in the gametes
organism will only produce gametes containing the dominant allele, as it has two copies of the same dominant allele, meaning all its gametes will carry that single allele type
Given a heterozygous organism, predict the possible alleles in the gametes
which has two different alleles for a trait (e.g., Aa), the possible alleles in the gametes are:
A
a
Thus, the gametes can either carry the dominant allele (A) or the recessive allele (a).
Given an organism with dominant phenotype but unknown genotype, predict the possible
alleles in the gametes
it could be either homozygous dominant (AA) or heterozygous (Aa).
Possible Alleles in Gametes:
If homozygous dominant (AA): All gametes will carry the dominant allele (A).
If heterozygous (Aa): Gametes can carry either the dominant allele (A) or the recessive allele (a).
Summary:
Gametes: A (if AA) or A, a (if Aa).
Solve genetics problems involving single hybrid cross
Identify Parent Genotypes: Determine the genotypes of the parents (e.g., AA x Aa).
Create a Punnett Square: Draw a 2x2 grid.
Fill in the Square: Place one parent's alleles on the top and the other on the side.
Determine Offspring Genotypes: Fill in the squares to find possible genotypes.
Calculate Ratios: Analyze the genotypes to determine phenotypic ratios.
Example: For AA x Aa, the offspring genotypes would be 50% AA and 50% Aa.
Explain how a test cross is used to determine the genotype of an organism with the dominant phenotype (know the purpose of a test cross)
is used to determine the genotype of an organism exhibiting a dominant phenotype. It involves crossing the organism with a homozygous recessive individual.
Purpose:
If the organism is homozygous dominant, all offspring will display the dominant phenotype.
If the organism is heterozygous, approximately half of the offspring will show the recessive phenotype.
This helps identify whether the dominant phenotype is due to one or two dominant alleles.
Solve genetics problems involving test cross
is a genetic cross between an individual with a dominant phenotype (unknown genotype) and a homozygous recessive individual. The purpose is to determine the unknown genotype of the dominant phenotype individual.
Identify the Dominant Trait: Determine the dominant and recessive alleles.
Perform the Test Cross: Cross the dominant phenotype with a homozygous recessive.
Analyze Offspring:
If all offspring show the dominant phenotype, the unknown genotype is homozygous dominant (AA).
If offspring show a 1:1 ratio of dominant to recessive phenotypes, the unknown genotype is heterozygous (Aa).
Define dihybrid cross
is a genetic cross between two individuals that differ in two traits, each controlled by different genes. It typically involves parents that are both heterozygous for the two traits (e.g., AaBb x AaBb). The resulting offspring (F1 generation) can exhibit a variety of combinations of the traits, and the phenotypic ratio in the F2 generation is usually 9:3:3:1.
Define dependent assortment; predict the ratios of phenotypes and genotypes in the F2 offspring if 2 genes assort dependently
Dependent Assortment: This occurs when two genes are located close together on the same chromosome and tend to be inherited together.
Phenotypic Ratios in F2 Offspring: If two genes assort dependently, the phenotypic ratio typically follows a 3:1 ratio for dominant to recessive traits if both genes are dominant.
Genotypic Ratios: The genotypic ratio can be more complex, often resulting in a 1:2:1 ratio for homozygous dominant, heterozygous, and homozygous recessive combinations for each gene.
Define independent assortment
is a genetic principle stating that alleles for different traits segregate independently of one another during the formation of gametes. This means the inheritance of one trait will not affect the inheritance of another, leading to genetic variation in offspring. This principle is one of Mendel's laws of inheritance.
Predict the combinations of alleles in the gametes produced by the F1 offspring if 2 genes assort independently
When two genes assort independently, the combinations of alleles in the gametes can be predicted using a dihybrid cross. For example, if the F1 offspring are heterozygous for both genes (AaBb), the possible gamete combinations are:
AB
Ab
aB
ab
Thus, there are four possible combinations of alleles in the gametes.
Predict the ratios of genotypes and phenotypes in the F2 offspring if 2 genes assort
independently using Punnett square analysis. Recognize the 9:3:3:1 ratio of two traits that
occurs if the two traits are independently assorting.
When two genes assort independently, the F2 offspring will exhibit a phenotypic ratio of 9:3:3:1. This ratio represents:
9 individuals with both dominant traits
3 individuals with the dominant trait for the first gene and recessive for the second
3 individuals with the recessive trait for the first gene and dominant for the second
1 individual with both recessive traits
For genotypes, the ratio will be 1:2:1:2:4:2:1:2:1 for the combinations of alleles.
Given an organism with heterozygous genotype, explain the probability of the gamete having
the dominant allele. Explain the probability of the gamete having the recessive allele.
In a heterozygous genotype (e.g., Aa), the organism has one dominant allele (A) and one recessive allele (a).
Probability of gamete having the dominant allele (A): 50% (1 out of 2 gametes)
Probability of gamete having the recessive allele (a): 50% (1 out of 2 gametes)
Thus, each gamete has an equal chance of carrying either allele.
Given an organism with a homozygous recessive genotype, determine the probability of the gamete having the dominant allele. Determine the probability of the gamete having the recessive allele
Homozygous Recessive Genotype: This means the organism has two recessive alleles (e.g., aa).
Probability of Gamete Having Dominant Allele: 0% (no dominant alleles present).
Probability of Gamete Having Recessive Allele: 100% (all gametes will carry the recessive allele).
Given an organism with a homozygous dominant genotype, determine the probability of the gamete having the dominant allele. Determine the probability of the gamete having the recessive allele
In a homozygous dominant genotype (e.g., AA), all gametes produced will carry the dominant allele (A).
Probability of gamete having the dominant allele (A): 100% or 1.0
Probability of gamete having the recessive allele (a): 0% or 0.0
Understand the Rule of multiplication
In genetics, the Rule of Multiplication states that the probability of two independent events occurring together is the product of their individual probabilities. For example, if the probability of event A is P(A) and the probability of event B is P(B), then the probability of both A and B occurring is:
[ P(A \text{ and } B) = P(A) \times P(B) ]
This rule is often used in genetic crosses to determine the likelihood of specific allele combinations in offspring.
Given genotypes or phenotypes of parents, predict the alleles in the gametes, and use the ruleof multiplication to predict the genotypes and/or phenotypes of the offspring
To predict the alleles in the gametes and use the rule of multiplication:
Identify Parent Genotypes: Determine alleles each parent can contribute.
Gamete Formation: List possible gametes for each parent.
Use the Rule of Multiplication: Multiply probabilities of each gamete combination.
Example:
Parent 1: Aa
Parent 2: Aa
Gametes: A, a (from both parents)
Offspring Genotypes:
AA: 1/4
Aa: 1/2
aa: 1/4
Phenotypes: If A is dominant, the ratio is 3:1 for phenotypes
Understand the Rule of addition.
The Rule of Addition states that the probability of an event occurring is the sum of the probabilities of each individual way that event can occur. In genetics, it applies to the likelihood of obtaining a specific genotype or phenotype from different combinations of alleles. For example, if two different genotypes can produce the same phenotype, their probabilities can be added together to find the total probability of that phenotype occurring.
Solve genetics problems using rules of multiplication and addition.
Multiplication Rule: Used when calculating the probability of two independent events occurring together.
Example: Probability of getting a dominant allele from two heterozygous parents (Aa x Aa) = 1/2 (A) * 1/2 (A) = 1/4 (AA).
Addition Rule: Used when calculating the probability of either of two mutually exclusive events occurring.
Example: Probability of getting either AA or Aa from Aa x Aa = P(AA) + P(Aa) = 1/4 + 1/2 = 3/4.
Use these rules to solve various genetics problems effectively.
Solve genetics problems using rules of multiplication and addition to predict offspring genotypes and phenotypes for 1 or 2 or 3 separate traits.
To solve genetics problems for predicting offspring genotypes and phenotypes, use the following rules:
For independent traits, multiply the probabilities of each trait.
Example: For a dihybrid cross (AaBb x AaBb), the probability of offspring being A_B_ (dominant for both traits) is:
P(A_) = P(A) + P(a) = 3/4
P(B_) = P(B) + P(b) = 3/4
P(A_B_) = (3/4) * (3/4) = 9/16
Use when calculating the probability of mutually exclusive outcomes.
Example: For a trait with alleles A and a, the probability of being A or a is:
P(A) + P(a) = 1 (since they are the only options).
Apply these rules to predict genotypes and phenotypes for 1, 2, or 3 traits accordingly
Recognize that a trait has incomplete dominance when the trait (example color) is intermediate between the two phenotypes
Incomplete DominanceIncomplete dominance occurs when the phenotype of a heterozygote is intermediate between the phenotypes of the two homozygotes. For example, if a red flower (RR) is crossed with a white flower (WW), the resulting offspring (RW) may have pink flowers, demonstrating an intermediate color.
Use proper nomenclature to depict incomplete dominance.
For example C^R, C^W
Solve genetics problems involving incomplete dominance.
To solve genetics problems involving incomplete dominance, follow these steps:
Identify the alleles involved (e.g., A and B).
Determine the genotype of the parents.
Use a Punnett square to predict offspring genotypes.
Analyze the phenotypic ratios, as incomplete dominance results in a blend of traits (e.g., red + white = pink).
Understand how epistasis affects phenotype
Epistasis is a genetic interaction where the effect of one gene (the epistatic gene) masks or modifies the expression of another gene (the hypostatic gene).
Phenotypic Effect: This can lead to unexpected phenotypes in offspring, as the presence of certain alleles can prevent the expression of others, altering the typical Mendelian ratios.
For example, in coat color in mice, one gene may determine pigment type, while another gene may determine whether pigment is deposited, affecting the overall color seen.
Solve genetics problems involving epistasis
Identify Genes Involved: Determine which genes are epistatic (masking) and hypostatic (masked).
Determine Alleles: Assign alleles for each gene (e.g., A/a and B/b).
Create a Punnett Square: For two traits, create a 4x4 Punnett square to visualize combinations.
Calculate Ratios: Use the ratios from the Punnett square to determine phenotypic ratios, considering epistatic interactions.
Apply Rules: Use the multiplication rule for independent traits and the addition rule for combined outcomes.
Gene A: A (dominant) masks gene B.
Gene B: B (dominant) and b (recessive).
If A is present, the phenotype is determined by A regardless of B's genotype.
Understand the meaning of co-dominance/multiple alleles
Co-Dominance
Co-dominance occurs when both alleles in a heterozygous organism contribute equally and visibly to the phenotype. For example, in AB blood type, both A and B alleles are expressed.
Multiple Alleles
Multiple alleles refer to the presence of more than two alleles for a genetic trait within a population. An example is the ABO blood group system, which has three alleles: A, B, and O.
Use genetic nomenclature to indicate the alleles for blood type
I^A I^B i
Solve genetics problems involving ABO blood typing
ABO Blood Typing Genetics Problems
Genotype for Type A: I^AI^A or I^Ai
Genotype for Type B: I^BI^B or I^Bi
Genotype for Type AB: I^AI^B
Genotype for Type O: ii
Use Punnett squares to predict offspring blood types based on parental genotypes.
What does polygenic inheritance mean? What are some traits affected by multiple genes?
Polygenic Inheritance: This refers to the inheritance pattern where multiple genes (often located on different chromosomes) influence a single trait.
Traits Affected by Multiple Genes:
Skin color
Height
Eye color
Weight
Intelligence
These traits exhibit a continuous range of phenotypes due to the additive effects of multiple alleles.
Describe some of the genes involved in skin color
MC1R: Affects melanin production; variants can lead to red hair and fair skin.
SLC24A5: Associated with lighter skin pigmentation; common in European populations.
SLC45A2: Influences pigmentation; variants are linked to lighter skin in Europeans.
TYR: Involved in melanin synthesis; mutations can cause albinism.
These genes interact with environmental factors, leading to a wide range of skin tones.
Give examples of environment affecting phenotype
Temperature: In Siamese cats, cooler body parts (ears, paws) are darker due to temperature-sensitive enzyme activity.
Nutrition: Malnutrition can stunt growth and affect physical development in humans.
Sunlight: Plants like hydrangeas change color based on soil pH and sunlight exposure.
Altitude: High altitude can lead to increased red blood cell production in humans for better oxygen transport.
Chemical Exposure: Certain chemicals can cause mutations or changes in coloration in animals, like the effect of pollutants on fish.
Explain how environment affects the color of hydrangea flowers
The color of hydrangea flowers is influenced by soil pH. In acidic soils (pH < 6), hydrangeas typically produce blue flowers due to the availability of aluminum ions. In neutral to alkaline soils (pH > 7), they tend to produce pink flowers as aluminum is less available. The presence of specific pigments, such as anthocyanins, also plays a role in determining flower color.
Know what square and circle represent in Pedigree analysis
Square: Represents a male individual.
Circle: Represents a female individual.
These symbols help track inheritance patterns of traits through generations.
Know what closed and open symbol represent Pedigree analysis
Closed Symbol: Represents an affected individual (e.g., a person with a genetic disorder).
Open Symbol: Represents an unaffected individual (e.g., a person without the genetic disorder).
These symbols help visualize inheritance patterns in families.
Know what the relationship is from top to bottom of the pedigree
In a pedigree chart, the relationship from top to bottom typically represents generational lineage. The topmost individuals are the ancestors (parents or grandparents), while the individuals below them are their descendants (children or grandchildren). Lines connect parents to their offspring, illustrating inheritance patterns and familial relationships.
predict if the inheritance pattern is Mendelian dominant, Mendelian recessive, or sex-linked given a pedigree
Mendelian Dominant: Trait appears in every generation; affected individuals have at least one affected parent.
Mendelian Recessive: Trait can skip generations; affected individuals can have unaffected parents (carriers).
Sex-Linked: Often more males affected; trait may be passed from carrier mothers to sons.
Analyze the pedigree for these patterns to make your prediction.
be able to determine the genotypes of the individuals given a pedigree
Identify the Traits: Determine which traits are dominant or recessive.
Analyze the Pedigree: Look for patterns of inheritance (e.g., affected individuals).
Assign Genotypes: Use known genotypes of parents and offspring to deduce unknowns.
Consider Possible Combinations: For ambiguous cases, consider all possible genotypes that fit the observed data.
This method helps in understanding genetic inheritance within families.
Define carrier in genetics
In genetics, a carrier is an individual who possesses one copy of a recessive allele that does not manifest as a phenotype. Carriers can pass the recessive allele to their offspring, potentially leading to the expression of a genetic disorder if the offspring inherits another recessive allele from the other parent.
Given the genotypes and/or phenotypes of family members, predict if a family member is a carrier. Solve genetics problems involving carriers
To predict if a family member is a carrier of a genetic trait, analyze the genotypes and phenotypes of known family members. Use Punnett squares or pedigree charts to determine the likelihood of being a carrier based on inheritance patterns.
Define albinism and how it is inherited
Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin, leading to lighter skin, hair, and eyes. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to express the condition.
Given the genotypes and/or phenotypes of family members, predict if a family member is a carrier for albinism. Solve genetics problems involving albinism
To predict if a family member is a carrier for albinism, analyze the genotypes of family members. Albinism is typically an autosomal recessive trait, so a carrier would have one normal allele and one allele for albinism (Aa). Use Punnett squares to assess potential carrier status based on family genotypes.
Describe the symptoms of Tay-Sachs
Tay-Sachs disease symptoms typically include:
Developmental Delays: Slowed development in infants.
Loss of Motor Skills: Gradual loss of abilities like crawling and sitting.
Cherry-Red Spot: A characteristic red spot in the eye observed during an eye exam.
Seizures: Frequent seizures as the disease progresses.
Muscle Weakness: Decreased muscle tone and strength.
Vision and Hearing Loss: Progressive loss of senses.
Symptoms usually appear around 6 months of age and worsen over time.
Describe the inheritance pattern for Tay-Sachs
Tay-Sachs Inheritance Pattern: Tay-Sachs disease is also inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Individuals must inherit two copies of the mutated HEXA gene (one from each parent) to develop the disease, which affects the nervous system and is typically fatal in early childhood.
Describe which populations are more susceptible to Tay-Sachs
Tay-Sachs disease is more prevalent in specific populations, particularly:
Ashkenazi Jews: Approximately 1 in 27 are carriers.
French Canadians: Especially in Quebec.
Cajun populations: In Louisiana.
Certain Eastern European groups: Including some populations in the Mediterranean region.
These groups have higher carrier rates due to historical genetic isolation and founder effects.
Describe the symptoms of cystic fibrosis
Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis
Respiratory Issues: Chronic cough, wheezing, and frequent lung infections.
Digestive Problems: Difficulty absorbing nutrients, leading to malnutrition and poor growth.
Salty Sweat: Higher salt content in sweat, noticeable during physical activity.
Reproductive Issues: Infertility in males and complications in females.
Other Symptoms: Clubbing of fingers and toes, sinus infections, and diabetes risk.
Describe the cause and inheritance pattern for CF and solve genetics problems
Cause: CF is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which affects chloride ion transport in cells.
Inheritance Pattern: It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to express the disease.
Genetics Problems:To solve genetics problems related to CF, use Punnett squares to determine the probability of offspring inheriting the CF allele based on the genotypes of the parents.
Describe the cause of sickle cell
Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, leading to the production of abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin S). This causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped, resulting in blockages in blood flow and various complications.
Explain what is meant by pleiotropic. What are the pleiotropic effects of sickle cell?
Pleiotropy occurs when one gene influences multiple phenotypic traits.
Anemia: Reduced red blood cell count.
Pain Crises: Blockage of blood flow due to sickle-shaped cells.
Increased Infection Risk: Spleen damage leads to higher susceptibility.
Delayed Growth: Impaired oxygen delivery affects growth and development.
Vision Problems: Blocked blood vessels can damage the retina.
Describe achondroplasia.
Achondroplasia is a genetic disorder characterized by dwarfism, resulting from a mutation in the FGFR3 gene. This condition affects bone growth, leading to shorter stature, disproportionately short limbs, and a larger head. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning only one copy of the mutated gene is needed for the condition to manifest. Most cases arise from new mutations rather than inherited from parents.
Understand the inheritance pattern for achondroplasia, and solve genetics problems involving achondroplasia
Affected Parent: 50% chance of passing the condition to offspring.
Unaffected Parent: 0% chance of passing the condition.
Genetics Problems:
Cross between an affected (Aa) and unaffected (aa):
Offspring: 50% Aa (affected), 50% aa (unaffected).
Cross between two affected individuals (Aa x Aa):
Offspring: 25% AA (lethal), 50% Aa (affected), 25% aa (unaffected).
Always consider the possibility of lethal combinations in dominant disorders.
Describe the effects of Huntington’s Disease
Motor Symptoms: Involuntary movements (chorea), muscle rigidity, and coordination issues.
Cognitive Decline: Impaired judgment, memory loss, and difficulty with planning and organization.
Psychiatric Symptoms: Depression, anxiety, irritability, and personality changes.
Progressive Nature: Symptoms worsen over time, leading to severe disability and ultimately death, typically 10-30 years after onset.
HD is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene.
Describe the inheritance pattern for Huntington’s disease and solve genetics problems.
Huntington's disease (HD) is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means:
One copy of the mutated gene (HTT) from an affected parent can cause the disease in offspring.
Each child of an affected individual has a 50% chance of inheriting the disorder.
Symptoms typically appear in mid-adulthood.
Example Problem: If one parent has HD (Hh) and the other is unaffected (hh), what are the possible genotypes of their children?
Possible genotypes: 50% Hh (affected), 50% hh (unaffected).
Punnett Square:
H | h
---------------
h | Hh | hh
---------------
h | Hh | hh
This illustrates the inheritance pattern and potential outcomes for offspring.
Explain what is meant by multifactorial disease
Multifactorial Disease: A type of disease caused by a combination of multiple genetic and environmental factors. Unlike single-gene disorders, multifactorial diseases involve interactions between various genes and lifestyle or environmental influences. Examples include heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The complexity of these diseases makes them challenging to predict and treat.
Give examples of multifactorial diseases
Examples of Multifactorial Diseases:
Heart Disease - Influenced by genetics, diet, and lifestyle.
Diabetes - Type 2 diabetes has genetic and environmental factors.
Obesity - Affected by genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices.
Cancer - Various types, such as breast and colon cancer, involve multiple genetic and environmental factors.
Alzheimer's Disease - Involves genetic risk factors and environmental influences.
Describe amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a medical procedure used during pregnancy to obtain amniotic fluid for testing. It involves inserting a thin needle through the abdominal wall into the uterus to collect fluid surrounding the fetus. This fluid contains fetal cells and various substances that can be analyzed for genetic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, and other conditions. Amniocentesis is typically performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy and carries some risks, including miscarriage.
Describe chorionic villus sampling
Chorionic villus sampling is a prenatal diagnostic procedure used to detect genetic abnormalities in a fetus. It involves taking a small sample of the chorionic villi, which are tiny finger-like projections from the placenta.
Key Points:
Timing: Typically performed between 10-13 weeks of pregnancy.
Methods: Can be done through the cervix (transcervical) or abdomen (transabdominal).
Purpose: Tests for conditions like Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and other genetic disorders.
Risks: Includes a small risk of miscarriage and complications.
CVS provides early results compared to amniocentesis.