Are chromosomal disorders inherited?

Although it is possible to inherit some types of chromosomal abnormalities, most chromosomal disorders (such as Down syndrome and Turner syndrome) are not passed from one generation to the next.
Some chromosomal conditions are caused by changes in the number of chromosomes. These changes are not inherited, but occur as random events during the formation of reproductive cells (eggs and sperm). An error in cell division called nondisjunction results in reproductive cells with an abnormal number of chromosomes. For example, a reproductive cell may accidentally gain or lose one copy of a chromosome. If one of these atypical reproductive cells contributes to the genetic makeup of a child, the child will have an extra or missing chromosome in each of the body’s cells.
Changes in chromosome structure can also cause chromosomal disorders. Some changes in chromosome structure can be inherited, while others occur as random accidents during the formation of reproductive cells or in early fetal development. Because the inheritance of these changes can be complex, people concerned about this type of chromosomal abnormality may want to talk with a genetics professional.
Some cancer cells also have changes in the number or structure of their chromosomes. Because these changes occur in somatic cells (cells other than eggs and sperm), they cannot be passed from one generation to the next.

مواضيع ذات صلة

Genes in the Cell Nucleus Control Protein Synthesis

RNA Proofreading

Regulation of Transcription by DNA Modification

Electrostatic Forces that Determine Protein Structure

A peptide bond

ادوات قطع ولحم الـ DNA

مصير الـ DNA الغريب في النظام البكتيري

A Common Mechanism for Splicing Reactions

آليات واهمية النقل transduction mechanisms

النقل transduction

Regulation of Transcription by Chromatin

RNA Polymerase Binding and Regulation by Transcription Factors