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Are chromosomal disorders inherited?

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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.

For more information about how chromosomal changes occur:

As part of its fact sheet on chromosome abnormalities, the National Human Genome Research Institute provides a discussion of how chromosome abnormalities happenThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference..

The University of British Columbia’s web site about chromosomal mosaicism explains chromosomal changes, including a detailed description of how trisomy (the presence of an extra chromosome in each cell) happens:

The Chromosome Deletion Outreach fact sheet Introduction to ChromosomesThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. explains how structural changes occur.


Next: Why are some genetic conditions more common in particular ethnic groups?

 
Published: January 23, 2009