XLINKED Meaning and
Definition
-
X-linked refers to a mode of inheritance where a particular genetic trait or disorder is determined by a gene located on the X chromosome. The X chromosome is one of the two sex chromosomes, with females having two copies of it (XX) and males having one X and one Y chromosome (XY). Since males only have one X chromosome, any genetic mutation on this chromosome will be expressed, whether it is dominant or recessive, as there is no corresponding allele on the Y chromosome to suppress its effects. In contrast, females have two X chromosomes, which means that they can be carriers of X-linked disorders without necessarily showing any symptoms.
X-linked disorders can be either recessive or dominant. In the case of X-linked recessive disorders, males carrying the mutated gene will exhibit the phenotype, while females typically only become carriers. Females can still be affected if they inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent. X-linked dominant disorders, on the other hand, typically affect both males and females if they inherit the affected gene.
Understanding whether a trait or disorder is X-linked is important in genetic counseling and identifying the risk of transmission to offspring. It also aids in diagnosis, as knowing the mode of inheritance helps in determining the likelihood of an individual carrying or expressing the condition.
Common Misspellings for XLINKED
- plinked
- xlinker
- zlinked
- clinked
- dlinked
- slinked
- xkinked
- xpinked
- xoinked
- xlunked
- xljnked
- xlknked
- xlonked
- xl9nked
- xl8nked
- xlibked
- xlimked
- xlijked
- xlihked
- xlinjed
Etymology of XLINKED
The term "X-linked" refers to a genetic inheritance pattern associated with genes located on the X chromosome. The word "X" in "X-linked" comes from the name of the chromosome itself, which was named after its distinctive shape, resembling an "X" when viewed under a microscope. The word "linked" refers to the fact that these genes are physically located on the X chromosome and tend to be inherited together. Therefore, the etymology of "X-linked" can be traced back to the scientific study of chromosomes and genetics.
