Human Genetics


Feature Writer Articles in Human Genetics

 		Huntington Disease — Basic Genetics
Huntington disease is caused by mutations in the HTT gene, and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.
Basic Genetics of the Y Chromosome
Present only in males, the Y chromosome is one of two sex chromosomes in humans, spanning over 50 million base pairs
Understanding Genetic Counseling
Genetic counseling is a non-directive service for people who require information and/or support regarding genetic health issues.
The Basics of DNA Types and Inheritance
People interested in exploring both recent and deep ancestry may turn to molecular genealogy for more information.
Introduction to Gene Mutations in Humans
Most changes in DNA aren't harmful, however, some can have a detrimental effect on health and development.
Understanding Genetic Testing in Healthcare
Genetic testing can be an important part of support, preventative measures and/or treatment for health problems in individuals and families.
Understanding Genetic Consultation
A genetic consultation can offer information and support for those who have or are at risk to genetic disorder.
Introduction to Proteins in Human Cells
Genes are defined as basic units of heredity that direct the production of proteins. What are proteins and why are they important?
Introduction to Chromosome Abnormalities
Problems with chromosome number or structure can have serious implications for the individual affected.
Introduction to Chromosomes in Human Cells
First discovered in the 1800s, chromosomes are cell bodies that provide efficient storage for DNA.
Introduction to the Human Genome Project
The Human Genome Project was a 13-year international research project that aimed (and succeeded) to sequence the human genome.
Common Misconceptions in Genetics
Misunderstood areas in genetics include the eye color phenotype, the genetics of identical twins, cloning, and the offspring of first cousins.
Understanding Eye Color Prediction
Predicting a child's eye color is no easy task, and it's important to note that the Mendelian model used for such predictions is inaccurate, despite still being popular.
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Contributing Articles in Human Genetics

 		Genes Genetics and Inheritance
Not all genes confer a dominant trait and having certain mutated genetic variants does not guarantee the development of an inherited disorder.
Hair Color Genetics
Hair color is a complex interplay of genetic factors, with more than one gene involved in determining exactly what shade will emerge: black, brown, blonde or red.
Home DNA Testing Kits for Genetic Genealogy
At-home DNA test kits for genetic genealogy help people find out more about their ethnic origins, family heritage and surname relations.
Pre-Genetic Implantation Diagnosis Pros and Cons
A debate which discusses arguments for and against pre-screening unborn children for genetic mutations using PGD and whether designer babies lie ahead.
Mitochondrial DNA
DNA is a person's unique genetic map. It contains all of the information needed to make one, unique human being, unless it is mitochondrial DNA.
Colorblindness, Exciting Treatment Breakthrough
There is new red/green light at the end of the tunnel for those suffering the often relegated genetic vision disorder, colorblindness.
Repairing Chromosomal Breaks
A nick in the DNA strand is known as a chromosomal break. Cells have repair mechanisms for both single strand and double strand breaks.
How Cells Fight DNA Damage
Genetic disorders afflict millions and are caused either by inherited or acquired DNA mutations. This article outlines some ways human cells have for fighting DNA damage.
All People are Mutants
Since the beginnings of modern genetics scientists have been trying to figure out how often mutations occur; now they think they have the answer.
Micro-RNAs, Diseases and Therapy
Besides mediating between the DNA and proteins, RNA has a function in regulating the levels of proteins in the cell. This regulation is critical for the cell's behavior.
A Link between Obesity and Addiction
The addiction pathway may play a role in fat deposition and having a larger waist circumference.
A New Gene, NRXN3, Is Associated with Obesity
A new mutation in a gene that is active in the central nervous system and named neurexin 3 has been associated with increased risk for obesity.
A Novel Oral Drug For Ovarian Cancer Patients
A study presented at the 2009 ASCO meeting, shows the efficiency and low toxicity of a new inhibitor of the PARP protein, in patients resistant to standard chemotherapy.
Who is Mitochondrial Eve?
The idea of Mitochondrial Eve has spurred both imagination and confusion. Here is a simple explanation of this female ancestor all humans alive today share.
Dr Josef Mengele – Brazil Twins Experiments
An unnaturally high birthrate of twins in a small Brazilian town has been linked to Nazi experiments by Auschwitz doctor Josef Mengele. Scientists refute the claims.
How Tumor Cells Survive Dietary Restriction
A new study helps understand why calorie-restricted diet protects against some types of cancer and not the others.
New Technology, What is Genetic Assessment?
Services are available that can compare genetic makeup to markers that indicate risks for many genetic diseases using only a saliva test.
Personalized therapy for Metastatic Lung Cancer
A recent study published in May 2009, reports the efficiency of personalized chemotherapy based on the genetic profile of patients affected by non-small cell lung cancer.
Age-Related Gene Expression
A team of American and Portuguese researchers has compared and compiled several genetic studies to identify genes and mechanisms associated with aging.
APOE Changes Alzheimer's Risk
A fairly common genetic variation makes many people at greater risk for heart disease and for dementia, but not for the same reason.
What is Epigenetics?
Epigenetics is the latest buzzword in biotech. Here's a quick primer on how outside influences alter the genome and affect how DNA is expressed via methylation.
Parental Age May Affect Children's Intelligence
Increasing maternal age is associated with better performance on intelligence tests of children, while increasing paternal age is associated with a poorer performance.
Genetic Variants Found in Different Cancers
New technologies help researchers find common genetic mutations in different cancers.
Genetic Protections against HIV
AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, which killed an estimated 2.1 million people in 2007, but some individuals have been found to be resistant to HIV/AIDS.
Inherited Epigenetic Traits
Epigenetics, chemical alterations to chromosomes, have been found to be inherited, affecting disease incidence in families and gene expression.
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