Genetic Testing :: Genetics Disorders Diseases Papers

Genetic Testing Genetic screening uses a variety of science laboratory procedures to find out if a person has a genetic condition or disorder or is likely to develop a disease base on his or her genetic makeup. Individuals may wish to be tested if the family shows a history of one specific disease such as Huntingtons ailment or breast cancer, if they show symptoms of a genetic disorder which could be improved by early diagnosis, or if they are planning a family and are cin one caserned about the possibility of passing on a genetic trait to their offspring. This last type of screening can look at the parents genetic constitution or look at the genotype of the fetus or newborn. This type of screening can also look for a specific disorder or can be done as a general test for plebeian disorders as in prenatal testing or more normally newborn screening. Genetic tests use techniques to examine genes or markers near the genes. Direct testing for diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis and Sic kle Cell Anemia let from an analysis of an individuals specific genes. A technique called linkage analysis, or indirect testing, is used when the gene cannot be directly identified but can be located within a specific region of a chromosome. This testing requires additional DNA from an affected family member for comparison. Because each persons DNA is unique (except for alike twins), genetic tests also can be used for individual identification (DNA fingerprinting). This technique is often used in forensic work, where samples from a crime scene such as blood or semen could be used as incriminating or acquitting evidence. Genetic testing is a complex process, and the results depend both on reliable laboratory procedures and an accurate translation of results. Tests also vary in sensitivity, that is, their ability to happen mutations or to detect all patients who have or will develop the disease. Interpretation of test results are often complex even for trained physicians and other health deal out specialists. Types of Genetic TestingCarrier Identification includes genetic tests used by couples whose families have a history of recessive genetic disorders and who are considering having children. Three common tests include those for cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, and sickle-cell trait but more tests are coming on the market at a very high rate. Norman Frost of the University of Wisconsin Madison Medical School says, Potential new genetic tests roll off the conveyor belt of the human genome project almost once a week (2).