Genes determine physical and behavioral traits, with offspring inheriting one gene for each trait from each parent. Autosomal dominant genes can cause diseases or disorders, and mutations in these genes have a 50% chance of being passed on to offspring. Most traits, both physical and behavioral, are passed on from parents to offspring, although some […]
Approximately 20% of the human genome is made up of patented gene sequences, with over 40,000 gene patents granted between the 1970s and 2011. Patented genes can be controlled by the patent holder and require license fees for use. The concept of genetic patenting is controversial, with proponents and detractors. To patent a genetic sequence, […]
Household genes are constantly expressed and produce proteins necessary for cellular function. They are present in all cells, and errors in their expression can lead to cell death. Some housekeeping genes increase in expression when cells become malignant. They can be used as a constant in calibrating test systems. Understanding these genes is important in […]