19.2.3

Genetic Screening

Test yourself

Genetic Screening

DNA probes in electrophoresis and microarrays can be used to screen an individual for a number of genetic diseases.

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Information

  • Genetic screening can be used to identify -
    • If an individual is a carrier of a genetic disease. Examples include cyctic fibrosis, Huntingdon's disease, haemophilia, and sickle cell anaemia.
    • If an individual is at greater risk of developing a disease.
    • How likely an individual is to respond to a particular drug.
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Genetic counselling

  • The information gained from genetic screening can be used in genetic counselling.
  • Genetic counselling is used to advise patients about genetic screening.
  • The advice considers -
    • If screening is advisable.
    • What the results of screening mean.
    • How to prevent or treat a condition identified through screening.
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E.g. BRCA1

  • BRCA1 is a mutation that increases the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
  • The mutation is more likely to be present in a woman who has a family history of breast cancer.
  • Genetic counselling will help a woman decide whether to take a genetic screen. If the BRCA1 mutation is identified, genetic counselling can also help advise what she can do to prevent breast cancer.
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Personalised medicine

  • The information gained from genetic screening can also be used in personalised medicine.
  • The genes in an individual influence how likely an individual is to respond to a particular drug.
  • Genetic screening can help doctors prescribe the most effective drugs for their patient.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Structure

2Biological Molecules

3Enzymes

4Cell Membranes & Transport

5The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7Transport in Plants

8Transport in Mammals

9Gas Exchange

10Infectious Diseases

11Immunity

12Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

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