The information you learn could make all the difference in the world. By speaking to a genetic expert and taking a test you can make smart and informed choices helping you to understand how to be proactive and manage any potential future issues caused by inherited genetic conditions.
Strands of DNA instruct, or code, the body to build proteins and other important molecules. These strands are called sequences and each sequence contains a gene. It’s these genes that contain the blueprint for who we are – 50% mother, 50% father, with two versions of each gene – we may have dominant genes for each trait, two recessive or one of each.
A dominant gene will always win out, even if we have one dominant and one recessive. If we have two recessive, we’ll have that recessive trait, which could mean genetic disease.
Having a genetic variation or gene mutation can mean that we’re predisposed to a higher risk of developing a certain disease, or that we may pass on this risk to our offspring. But to understand what a genetic mutation is, we must first understand what DNA is and what genes are.
A genetic mutation is essentially a random mistake during the DNA replication process (our DNA is replicating all the time). This mistake in the pattern of A, C, G and T can happen at conception, meaning that we’ll be born with a mutation.
This may present immediately, in the form of a birth defect, or it may take it’s time to show up in the form of a different disease such as breast cancer later in life. These kinds of mutation can be passed onto our offspring.
Mutations are caused by as little as single base pair being coded incorrectly. Some may be completely unnoticed, whilst others may lead to disease. Others may impart a positive benefit, such as immunity to certain diseases. Survival of the fittest is an example of genetic mutations having a positive effect!
If you are concerned about a specific condition or disease that seems to be prevalent in your family or that, for example, your mother has had breast cancer and you are concerned you may also develop this. it could be invaluable for you to speak to a genetic expert to discuss your concerns. If you decided to go ahead with genetic testing, the results can only give you power. If the results say you’re clear of any genetic condition, that will ease any concerns. If the results confirm your thoughts that there is a genetic issue, then you are able to make an informed decision on your next steps and be ahead of the game with regular testing.
Whether you’re considering genetic testing prior to conception or you are concerned about potential genetic diseases or conditions in your family and looking to source any preventative measures, why not talk to one of our genetic experts who will give you all the support and advice you need.
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a type of molecule inside the cells of every single living being, including humans. It’s considered the building block of life and determines our genetic makeup, and what we look like. DNA is wound up and tightly packed into chromosomes, and most human beings have 46 chromosomes, in 23 pairs – 23 from our mother and 23 from our father. (Sometimes, as in the case of Downs syndrome, it’s possible to have an extra chromosome.)
Described as a double helix, under a powerful microscope, DNA looks like a twisted ladder and forms long strands of alternating sugar molecules and phosphate groups.
The two strands of DNA that form the double helix are joined together with two molecules called chemical bases, that consist of four different types – adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine, or A, C, G and T. A and T always pair together and C and G always pair together.
A, C, G and T repeat along the length of the strands of DNA in a random pattern – and the outcome of these patterns determine everything about us, from our eye colour to our predisposition to genetic diseases.
Described as a double helix, under a powerful microscope, DNA looks like a twisted ladder and forms long strands of alternating sugar molecules and phosphate groups.
The two strands of DNA that form the double helix are joined together with two molecules called chemical bases, that consist of four different types – adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine, or A, C, G and T. A and T always pair together and C and G always pair together.
A, C, G and T repeat along the length of the strands of DNA in a random pattern – and the outcome of these patterns determine everything about us, from our eye colour to our predisposition to genetic diseases.
We have leading experts at hand to offer advice. If you have any questions, get in touch and we will get back to you with their responses. You can also join us for any one of our online expert Q&As. Subscribe to receive updates on these. Why not join our community to share experiences with others who understand by clicking here.
When struggling to conceive, it can be invaluable to get tested and then have a chat with an expert to discuss next steps. Don't waste time and impact on your emotional wellbeing, diagnosis is really key and can shorten your length of TTC by getting the right support.
