Genetic Disorders and Birth Defects

A photon (the sun's laser beam) zaps through the cell membrane and the cytoplasm, through the nuclear membrane (the safe, womblike center of the cell), and hits the DNA. Imagine DNA as being like two pieces of spaghetti laid parallel, with crosshatches... Full Answer

Shaking down family for health details needn't always be a horribly awkward task. Remember that half of your family will always talk about the other half, so go the gossip route if it's easier. You might consider a phone opener like this: "Hello,... Full Answer

Epigenetics aren't just important because someday you'll be able to tag your baby's genes for blond hair, a composer's brain, or the ability to hurl a 98 mph fastball. Our bodies need some other kind of mechanism to allow us to adapt. Epigenetics gives... Full Answer

Back in 10th grade biology, you were probably taught that the unique combination of genes you received from your mom and dad (your genotype) were responsible for everything that followed—the color of your eyes, the size of your feet, your love of... Full Answer

Proteomics is a branch of biotechnology that evaluates the structure, interactions and function of proteins using techniques of molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics, while creating databases from the information obtained. Tools used in... Full Answer

Proteomics is a branch of biotechnology that evaluates the structure, interactions and function of proteins using techniques of molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics, while creating databases from the information obtained. Full Answer

If you think America has a weight problem, pity the poor Chinese. Because they went through long periods of famine, they developed the genetics to prevent starvation so well that just a small fraction of the weight gain that causes diabetes in Americans... Full Answer

To find a genetic counselor, you can begin by asking your own health care provider for a referral. Check with universities and medical centers in your area, as they may have genetics professionals affiliated with their institutions. A number of online... Full Answer

You may decide to have genetic counseling if your family has a history of a genetic disorder, hereditary cancer, or chromosome disorder. You may also want to see a genetic counselor if you or a member of your family have developed a genetic disorder. A... Full Answer

During genetic counseling, a genetic counselor will talk with you about your concerns and questions related to an increased risk for genetic conditions. The counselor will take a personal and family medical history and may perform a physical exam. If you... Full Answer