What is the Difference Between Autosomal and X-Linked Pedigree?

The main difference between autosomal and X-linked pedigrees lies in the inheritance patterns and the distribution of affected individuals in the pedigree. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

1. Affected Individuals: In autosomal pedigrees, both males and females are equally likely to be affected, usually in equal proportions. In X-linked pedigrees, males are much more commonly affected than females.
2. Carriers: In autosomal pedigrees, both male and female individuals can be carriers. In X-linked pedigrees, carriers are always female individuals, never male.
3. Inheritance Patterns: Autosomal traits generally appear to affect individuals in every generation, while X-linked traits show 'crisscross inheritance'.

To determine if a pedigree chart shows an autosomal or X-linked disorder, you can:

• Observe the distribution of affected individuals in the pedigree. If most of the males are affected, then the disorder is likely X-linked.
• Look for carriers. If female individuals are the carriers, then the disorder is likely X-linked.

1. Appearance in Generations: Autosomal traits tend to appear in every generation, while X-linked traits may skip generations.

In summary, autosomal pedigrees show equal distribution of affected individuals between males and females, while X-linked pedigrees show a predominance of affected males. Additionally, autosomal traits tend to appear in every generation, while X-linked traits may skip generations.

Comparative Table: Autosomal vs X-Linked Pedigree

The main difference between autosomal and X-linked pedigree lies in the type of chromosomes involved in the inheritance of traits. Autosomal pedigree describes the inheritance of traits of the genes in autosomes, while X-linked pedigree describes the inheritance of traits of the genes in sex chromosomes. Here is a table illustrating the differences between autosomal and X-linked pedigree:

In autosomal pedigree, both males and females have an equal chance of inheriting and being affected by the trait. On the other hand, in X-linked pedigree, males are more commonly affected by the trait due to the inheritance pattern through the X chromosome.