Chromosome Mutations
There are two major kinds of chromosome mutations. Firstly, there is a change in a number of copies of chromosomes, and secondly an alteration of chromosome structure. They way these chromosomes are altered can really affect someone’s way of life. There are three types of chromosome mutations: Down syndrome, Klinefelter’s syndrome and Turner’s syndrome.
An affect of chromosome mutations is called Down syndrome. Down syndrome (also known as Trisomy 21) is a condition in which an extra traditional material causes delay in the process of a child’s development. Down syndrome affects 1 in every 800 babies. A normal baby would receive 23 chromosomes from each parent giving the child a total of 46 chromosomes. In most cases of Down syndrome, a child gets an extra chromosome 21- for a total of 47 chromosomes instead of 46. This extra chromosome causes the physical features and development delays of Down syndrome. Although no one knows for sure why DS occurs and there’s no way to prevent the chromosomal error that causes it, scientists do know that women age 35 and older have a significantly higher risk of having a child with the condition.
Klinefelter’s syndrome, also known as XXY condition, is another type of chromosome mutation. Klinefelter’s syndrome is when a male receives an extra X chromosome in most of their cells. Instead of having the usual XY chromosome pattern, they would have the XXY pattern. Klinefelter’s syndrome is named after Dr. Henry Klinefelter’s because he is the first to describe the symptoms of a group of men with the extra X chromosome. The XXY condition can affect three main areas of development: physical, language, and social. As many boys hit puberty their physical feature would lead to be taller, a less muscular body, less facial and body hair, and broader hips than other boys.
During their teen years the child will tend to have lower energy levels, larger breasts, and weaker bones. By the time they reach adulthood they are more likely to have certain health problems, such as breast cancer, vein disease, autoimmune disorder, tooth decay, and etc. 25 to 85% of XXY males have some kind of language problem. Males with this syndrome have social developments which are usually quieter, less confident, less active, and more helpful and obedient than other boys.
Turner syndrome is a chromosomal condition that alters development in females. Women with Turner syndrome tend to be shorter than normal and are usually unable to have a child. Girls with this symptom often have a normal height for their first three years of their life, but after that they would tend to have a slow growth rate. Other symptoms of Turner syndrome are extra skin on the neck (webbed neck), puffiness or swelling of the hands and feet (lymphedema), heart defects, kidney problems, and etc. Girls with turner syndrome are usually good in verbal skills and reading skills, however, they have problems with math, memory skills and fine finger movements. Researchers have yet to conclude about which genes on the X chromosome are responsible for most signs and symptoms of Turner syndrome.
Given the types of chromosome mutations: Down syndrome, Klinefelter’s syndrome, and Turner’s syndrome, it is easy to see that these mutations haven’t found a cure yet. Hopefully, those reading this essay would see that mutations in the chromosomes are not easy to live with and please pray for those who have to live with this disorder.