A chimera, in genetic parlance, is an organism composed of cells with distinct genetic makeups. This rare genetic phenomenon is named after the Chimera, a mythological creature from Greek folklore that was part lion, part goat, and part serpent. Genetic chimeras are, in essence, living embodiments of this composite beast.
The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system, encoded by genes within the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) on chromosome 6, represents the cornerstone of the human immune response
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a genetic disorder that affects the function of red blood cells. This condition is linked to mutations on the X chromosome and is known to be the most common enzyme deficiency in humans, affecting approximately 400 million people worldwide.
The prenatal period is a crucial stage in human development, setting the foundation for health in later life. This phase, encompassing the time from conception until birth, has been a subject of extensive study, particularly in the field of biological anthropology.
Mendelism is the principles of genetics, that determine how traits are passed from generation to generation, find their roots in the mid-19th-century work of Gregor Mendel. His pioneering research on pea plants has been foundational to the field, leading to the development of what we now term "Mendelism."
The stages of human growth represent an intricate interplay of biological, cognitive, and psychosocial transformations. Studying these stages from a biological anthropological perspective not only enhances our understanding of human life but also promotes holistic approaches to health and wellness across the lifespan.
Fecundity, a term rooted in biology, denotes the potential reproductive capacity of an organism or population. Fecundity, a term derived from the Latin word 'fecunditas,' signifies the ability of an organism to produce offspring.
Gerontology is an interdisciplinary field of science that explores the physical, psychological, and socio-cultural aspects of aging. It's a branch of study that's increasingly relevant as the global population continues to age at
Lethal genes are those genetic sequences that can cause the death of an organism, typically before reproductive age, when expressed in a certain manner.
Chromosomal abnormalities occur when there is a significant change in the number or structure of chromosomes in a person's cells. This can include deletions, duplications, inversions, or translocations of chromosome parts.
Polygenes refer to a group of multiple genes that contribute to the expression of a specific trait or characteristic. Unlike single genes that have a clear-cut influence, polygenes work together to influence a trait's variation and complexity.