Genetics and Disease Risk Chapter 11

A small segment of DNA that contains the instructions for making a specific protein or enzyme.

The complete set of genetic instructions contained within all 23 pairs of human chromosomes. It dictates all the traits and characteristics of an individual.

The Human Genome Project aimed to map all the genes within the human chromosomes. Scientists wanted to understand the full genetic makeup of humans.

This testing analyzes genes to identify if individuals carry variations that might lead to inherited diseases or conditions. It helps determine the risk of developing specific diseases in the future.

Used to determine if individuals carry harmful genes that could be passed on to their offspring. It is a screening test for potential genetic risks for future generations.

This testing is used to identify genetic disorders in a fetus during pregnancy. Ultrasound and other methods are employed to assess fetal development.

The project revealed that humans have around 20,000 to 25,000 genes, significantly fewer than initially estimated. This discovery advanced our understanding of gene function and human evolution.

Genes provide the instructions for building proteins, which influence our physical and functional characteristics, such as eye color, height, and susceptibility to certain diseases.

The study of how genes influence a person's response to medication.

A disease caused by changes in DNA (mutations) that affect one or more genes.

Changes in DNA sequences that can lead to genetic diseases. These can affect one gene, like in cystic fibrosis, or multiple genes.

Factors like aging, smoking, or exposure to toxins can contribute to the development of genetic diseases. These factors may 'switch on' genes.

Treating individuals differently based on their actual or perceived genetic differences.

A law passed in 2008 to protect people from discrimination in employment and health insurance based on their genes.

A law passed in 1996 to prevent health insurers from denying coverage based on genetic information when individuals switch between group health plans.

A professional service that helps individuals understand and manage genetic information and its implications.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects against discrimination based on genetic information related to illness, disease, or other disorders in the workplace.

The process of altering an organism's genetic makeup by adding, deleting, or changing genes.

Adding genes from Arctic flounder to strawberry plants to improve their cold tolerance.

Creating an exact genetic replica of another cell, tissue, or organism.

Creating exact copies of specific DNA segments called genes.

Gene cloning is used to study gene sequences and manipulate genes by altering their structure or combining them with new DNA.

Gene cloning allows researchers to create multiple copies of genes for extensive study and manipulation, aiding scientific advancements.

The process of transplanting organs or tissues from animals into humans.

Arguments against using animals for research, including potential harm to animals and ethical concerns about using them for human benefit.

A condition affecting cloned animals, characterized by oversized offspring, enlarged organs, and other health issues.

Proteins that regulate cell growth and development. Deactivation of these receptors can lead to large-offspring syndrome.

The percentage of successful cloning attempts, which is currently low for animals.

Cloned animals often die prematurely from infections and complications.

The potential impact of cloning on mental development, which is unknown and a concern for human cloning.

Questions surrounding the ethics of human cloning, particularly the risks and potential harm involved in experimental trials.

Gene therapy is the process of introducing a functional copy of a gene into cells to correct a genetic defect or disease.

Gene therapy can target metabolic disorders by replacing missing enzymes or blocking overactive pathways.

Special diets, like those used for phenylketonuria and homocystinuria, can help eliminate toxic compounds.

There are two main types: Somatic gene therapy, which involves replacing genes in body cells, and Germline gene therapy, which targets reproductive cells.

Somatic gene therapy involves replacing a defective gene with a working copy in specific body cells.

Somatic gene therapy has been used to treat adenosine deaminase deficiency, a severe immunodeficiency that usually results in death in early childhood.

Cloning raises complex ethical questions like potential physical problems for the clone, family dynamics, and access to the technology for the wealthy.

While most states have laws banning human cloning, there is no federal law prohibiting it.

All 50 states have laws regulating adoption, ensuring a legal framework for establishing the parent-child relationship.

Certain federal laws like the Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act influence aspects of adoption, ensuring child welfare and parental rights.

Common law grants parents the authority to make healthcare decisions for their minor children.

The state can act as parental authority in certain situations to protect the child's best interests, potentially overriding parental decisions.

Federal law allows for specific treatment options, including withholding treatment, for newborns with severe disabilities, under parental consent and specific criteria.

All 50 states have laws allowing parents to safely abandon newborns at designated locations without legal prosecution, aimed at preventing infant abandonment.

Abandonment of infants often occurs due to fear or desperation, highlighting the need for safe haven laws to protect abandoned newborns.

Newborns have the same legal rights as any other American citizen, regardless of their medical condition.