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Genetic Disorders
What is a genetic disease? How is it defined?
A genetic disease is any disease that is caused by an abnormality in an individual's genome, the person's entire genetic makeup. The abnormality can range from minuscule to major, from a discrete mutation in a single base in the DNA of a single gene to a gross chromosome abnormality involving the addition or subtraction of an entire chromosome or set of chromosomes. Some genetic disorders are inherited from the parents, while other genetic diseases are caused by acquired changes or mutations in a preexisting gene or group of genes. Mutations can occur either randomly or due to some environmental exposure.
What are the types of genetic inheritance?
There are a number of different types of genetic inheritance including:
- Single gene inheritance
- Multifactorial inheritance
- Chromosome abnormalities
- Mitochondrial inheritance
Related Diseases
Gaucher Disease
Gaucher disease is an inherited disorder that affects many of the body's organs and tissues. The signs and symptoms of this condition vary widely among affected individuals. Researchers have described several types of Gaucher disease based on their characteristic features.
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MPS & Related Diseases
Mucopolysaccharide and related Lysosomal Storage Diseases are individually rare; cumulatively affecting 1:25,000 live births. One baby born every eight days will be diagnosed with an MPS or related disease. These multi-organ storage diseases cause progressive physical disability and, in many cases, severe degenerative mental deterioration resulting in death in childhood.
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PKU Disease
Phenylketonuria, also called PKU, is a rare inherited disorder that causes an amino acid called phenylalanine to build up in the body. PKU is caused by a defect in the gene that helps create the enzyme needed to break down phenylalanine.
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Pompe Disease
Pompe disease is an inherited disorder caused by the buildup of a complex sugar called glycogen in the body's cells. The accumulation of glycogen in certain organs and tissues, especially muscles, impairs their ability to function normally.
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