Genetic test
Genetic test
A Genetic test (pronunciation: /dʒɪˈnɛtɪk tɛst/) is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins. The results of a genetic test can confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition or help determine a person's chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder.
Etymology
The term "genetic test" is derived from the word "genetic", which comes from the Greek word "genetikos", meaning "genitive" and "genes" meaning "born", and the word "test", which originates from the Old French "test", meaning "small vessel".
Types of Genetic Tests
There are several types of genetic tests, including:
- Molecular genetic tests (or gene tests) study single genes or short lengths of DNA to identify variations or mutations that lead to a genetic disorder.
- Chromosomal genetic tests analyze whole chromosomes or long lengths of DNA to see if there are large genetic changes, such as an extra copy of a chromosome, that cause a genetic condition.
- Biochemical genetic tests study the amount or activity level of proteins; abnormalities in either can indicate changes to the DNA that result in a genetic disorder.
Related Terms
- Genetic disorder: A disease caused by an abnormality in an individual's DNA.
- DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms.
- Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
- Protein: A molecule composed of polymers of amino acids joined together by peptide bonds.
- Mutation: A change in a DNA sequence, usually occurring because of errors in replication or repair.
- Gene: A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for making a specific protein or set of proteins.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Genetic test
- Wikipedia's article - Genetic test
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