Topic Summaries

Inherited disorders

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Stem cells, microscopy, and microorganisms

Plant disease and monoclonal antibodies

The brain and the eye

Resource cycles and environmental change

  • Some disorders are caused by the inheritance of certain alleles (e.g. polydactyly (having extra fingers or toes) is caused by a dominant allele; cystic fibrosis (a disorder of cell membranes) is caused by a recessive allele).
  • Embryo screening involves looking for genetic disorders in embryos before they develop, allowing the parents to make an informed decision about continuing or terminating the pregnancy, which may alleviate suffering. However, there is a possible risk to the embryo, and the person carrying the embryo. It is also often expensive, and can be seen as unethical or against some religions

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