Genetic Disorders

What Are Genetic Disorders?

Genetic disorders are abnormalities or ailments that are caused predominantly by a mutation or other abnormality in a person's DNA. There are a number of specific causes of genetic disorder. An abnormal number of chromosomes, a mutation in a single gene, and hereditary problems are among the more common causes. There are currently over 4,000 genetic disorders that we know and they range in severity, cause, and regularity. Among the most common of genetic disorders is cystic fibrosis.

The Vast Range Of Disorders

It would be virtually impossible to discuss every type of genetic disorder in detail on a single website, let a lone one page. The symptoms of each disorder can differ greatly and in many cases the disorder itself can go undetected for some time into a person's life. There is a very real chance that sufferers of genetic disorders will pass the same disease down to their children so it is important that one learns as much as possible about any disorder they may have.

Gene Mutation

Gene mutation, as one of the most common causes of genetic disorders, is the mutation or changing or a particular gene as it ages. Genetic disorders caused by gene mutation will generally go undetected until the mutation occurs. In some cases this can be during childhood, while in other cases it could be much later in life. In some instances it is quite possible that a person will never suffer the ill effects of the mutation but could still pass it on to their children.

Gene Therapy And Genetic Research

If a person has one damaged gene then it is less likely they will contract the disease because they also have a fit and healthy gene that is paired with the unhealthy one. However, if both parents are carriers then a child has a 1 in 4 chance of contracting a genetic disease. The genetic treatment of these disorders is nearly impossible because scientists simply don't have enough information on the various genes within our bodies and what each one does. Heavy research is continually being carried out to further gene therapy.