Genetic Brain Disorders

A genetic brain disorder is caused by a variation or a mutation in a gene. A variation is a different form of a gene. A mutation is a change in a gene. Genetic brain disorders affect the development and function of the brain.

Some genetic brain disorders are due to random gene mutations or mutations caused by environmental exposure, such as cigarette smoke. Other disorders are inherited, which means that a mutated gene or group of genes is passed down through a family. They can also be due to a combination of both genetic changes and other outside factors.

Some examples of genetic brain disorders include

• Leukodystrophies
• Phenylketonuria
• Tay-Sachs disease
• Wilson disease

Many people with genetic brain disorders fail to produce enough of certain proteins that influence brain development and function. These brain disorders can cause serious problems that affect the nervous system. Some have treatments to control symptoms. Some are life-threatening. (NIH)

Also called: Brain Disorders, Inborn Genetic, Maple Syrup Urine Disease

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Genetic Anticipation

A phenomenon in which the signs and symptoms of some genetic conditions tend to become more severe and/or appear at an earlier…

Genetic Annotation Initiative

NCI initiate to explore, develop and then apply technology for identification and characterization of genes important in cancer. Based on gene…

Genetic Annotation Index

A listing of genetic variations in genes important to cancer

Genetic analysis

The study of a sample of DNA to look for mutations (changes) that may increase risk of disease or affect the way…

Genetic

Inherited; having to do with information that is passed from parents to offspring through genes in sperm and egg cells.

Genes and Gene Therapy

Genes are the building blocks of inheritance. Passed from parent to child, they contain instructions for making proteins. If genes don't produce…