What the Y chromosome can tell us

DNA contains the instructions for making all living things. This includes everything from bacteria and plants to humans. Proteins package DNA into chromosomes so it will fit in our cells. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. We get one set from our mother. This includes one X chromosome. We get the other set from our father. Females get an X. Males get a Y chromosome. The Y chromosome contains roughly 27 genes. These genes might determine how tall you will be. Y-genes might also affect how well you can hear, and your risk for heart disease. But, only a few groups have studied these genes. Researchers at Vanderbilt will use BioVU to study genes on the Y chromosome. They will look for men with certain Y-gene changes. They hope to find gene changes linked to disease risk. They will combine their findings with other groups working on the Y chromosome.