A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases. Humans have a total of 3 billion base pairs of DNA. The Human Genome Project has estimated that humans have between 20,000 and 25,000 genes. Every person normally has two copies of each gene, one inherited from each parent. There are four broad categories of causes of genetic conditions.
After completing this course, you should be able to:
1. Identify patients at increased risk of genetic disorders based on family medical history
2. List common indications for genetic testing, genetic counseling, or both
3. Describe techniques available for genetic screening, diagnostic testing, and therapy
1. Genetic disorders based on family medical history
2. Common indications for genetic testing, genetic counseling
3. Techniques available for genetic screening, diagnostic testing, and therapy
This course is intended for doctors.