What is the Difference Between X Linked Dominant and X Linked Recessive?

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The difference between X-linked dominant and X-linked recessive inheritance lies in the way the genetic disorders are passed down through generations and the affected individuals. Here are the key differences:

X-linked Dominant:

  1. A single mutated gene on the X chromosome is sufficient to cause the disorder in both males and females.
  2. Males and females are equally affected by the disorder.
  3. Fathers cannot pass X-linked traits to their sons, but mothers can pass X-linked genes to both sons and daughters.

X-linked Recessive:

  1. Affected males have a single altered copy of the gene on their X chromosome, while unaffected females have a second, normal copy of the gene.
  2. Males are affected almost exclusively, while females are generally unaffected carriers of the X-linked trait.
  3. Affected males cannot pass the condition to their sons, but all daughters will inherit the X chromosome and become carriers of the X-linked trait.

In summary, X-linked dominant disorders are caused by mutations in genes on the X chromosome and affect both males and females, while X-linked recessive disorders are caused by mutations in genes on the X chromosome and predominantly affect males.

Comparative Table: X Linked Dominant vs X Linked Recessive

X-linked dominant and X-linked recessive are two types of genetic inheritance patterns involving genes located on the X chromosome. Here are the key differences between them:

  • Mode of Inheritance: In X-linked dominant inheritance, a dominant gene on the X chromosome causes the disorder. In X-linked recessive inheritance, one or two copies of recessive genes on the X chromosomes cause the disorder.

  • Gender-specific affect: In X-linked dominant inheritance, only one copy of the mutant gene is sufficient to cause the disease in both males and females. In X-linked recessive inheritance, one copy of the mutant gene is sufficient to cause the disease in males, but both copies are needed to cause the disease in females.

  • Inheritance: X-linked dominant inheritance tends to occur in every generation of a family, with each affected person usually having one affected parent. Dominant mutations can also occur in an individual for the first time, with no family history of the condition. X-linked recessive inheritance often has a father who carries the mutated gene, passing it on to unaffected female carriers and affected males.

Feature X-linked Dominant X-linked Recessive
Mode of Inheritance Dominant gene on the X chromosome Recessive gene(s) on the X chromosome
Gender-specific affect One copy of the mutant gene sufficient for disease in both males and females One copy of the mutant gene sufficient for disease in males, two copies needed for disease in females
Inheritance Pattern Found in every generation of a family Father carries the mutated gene, passes it to unaffected female carriers and affected males