Genetics of asthma

Viruses can cause colds, which can make it hard to breathe. Asthma is also a condition that makes it hard to breathe. Both can cause you to cough, wheeze, or become short of breath. In babies, viral infections are common. But, not all lead to asthma. In babies, if an Read more

Genetics of complex traits

Genes play a role in human traits and diseases. Sometimes, one gene determines one trait. For example, if you have wet or dry earwax. A change one gene can also cause a disease. This is the case with sickle cell anemia. But most of the time, diseases are a result Read more

Genetics of diarrhea disorders in children

Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. Some common causes include infections, drugs, and some types of sugar. It often lasts just a couple of days. But, sometimes it can last longer. When this happens, it may mean be a sign of something more serious. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration (always feeling Read more

Using genetics to predict disease

We know what causes some diseases, like chicken pox and measles. As a result, we know how to treat them. We also know vaccines can prevent them. Gene changes can also cause diseases. Sometimes we are born with these gene changes. But gene changes also happen after we are born. Read more

Genetics of rare diseases

A disease is defined by a certain set of symptoms or test results. A rare, or orphan, disease affects only a small number of people. There are thousands of rare diseases. But, only a few hundred have any treatments. Rare diseases are often hard to diagnose. Sometimes, we cannot make Read more

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 Read more

Genetics of drug-induced pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is when your pancreas becomes swollen and tender. Your pancreas is a long, flat gland found behind the stomach. It makes hormones that help control how your body breaks down sugar. It also makes proteins that help you digest food. These proteins travel to the small intestine where they Read more

Genetics of brown recluse spider bites

Recluse spiders live in the mid-south region of the United States. The area covers 15 states from Nebraska to Ohio, and Texas to Florida. The brown recluse spider is the most common. These spiders have a distinct violin pattern on their back. When recluse spiders bite, they inject venom, or Read more