Down Syndrome
Definition
Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra 21st chromosome. It's characterized by physical growth delays, characteristic facial features, and mild to moderate intellectual disability.
Analogy
Think of chromosomes as a recipe book for making a human being. Normally, we have two copies of each book (or chromosome), one from mom and one from dad. But in Down Syndrome, there's an extra copy of the 21st book. This causes some confusion in the 'kitchen' (our bodies), leading to the unique characteristics associated with this condition.
Related terms
Trisomy 21: This is another name for Down Syndrome because it involves three copies (tri) of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two.
Genetic Disorder: A disease or condition caused by abnormalities in an individual's genome. Down syndrome is an example of a genetic disorder.
Chromosome Abnormality: Any change in the normal structure or number of chromosomes—often resulting in physical or mental abnormalities.
"Down Syndrome" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.