Genetic testing

Definition

Genetic testing is the analysis of DNA to identify changes or mutations that may lead to genetic disorders or diseases. It can be used for diagnostic, predictive, or carrier testing purposes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Genetic testing can detect mutations associated with inherited diseases such as cystic fibrosis and Huntington's disease.
2. Techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) are commonly used in genetic testing.
3. Ethical considerations regarding privacy and potential discrimination are significant concerns in genetic testing.
4. Prenatal genetic testing can identify chromosomal abnormalities in a fetus, such as Down syndrome.
5. Direct-to-consumer genetic tests allow individuals to access information about their ancestry and potential health risks without a healthcare provider.

Review Questions

• What are two common techniques used in genetic testing?
• Why are ethical considerations important in the context of genetic testing?
• How can prenatal genetic testing impact decision-making during pregnancy?

Related terms

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): A technique used to amplify small segments of DNA for analysis

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): Advanced sequencing technology that allows for rapid sequencing of large stretches of DNA

Carrier Testing: Genetic testing performed to determine if an individual carries a gene mutation that could be passed on to offspring