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Understanding Codominance in Blood Groups

The document discusses key genetic concepts including codominance in ABO blood groups, where alleles IA and IB are expressed equally, and the determination of sex in humans based on X and Y chromosomes. It also covers gene mutations, exemplified by sickle cell anemia, and chromosome mutations, highlighted by Down's syndrome caused by trisomy 21. Additionally, it outlines sources of genetic variation and factors that increase mutation rates, such as ionizing radiation and chemical mutagens.

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5 views2 pages

Understanding Codominance in Blood Groups

The document discusses key genetic concepts including codominance in ABO blood groups, where alleles IA and IB are expressed equally, and the determination of sex in humans based on X and Y chromosomes. It also covers gene mutations, exemplified by sickle cell anemia, and chromosome mutations, highlighted by Down's syndrome caused by trisomy 21. Additionally, it outlines sources of genetic variation and factors that increase mutation rates, such as ionizing radiation and chemical mutagens.

Uploaded by

dilan malinda
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Codominance and ABO Blood Groups

Codominance occurs when both alleles in a heterozygous individual are expressed equally in the
phenotype. The ABO blood group system demonstrates codominance through the inheritance of three
alleles: IA, IB, and IO.

- IA and IB are codominant, meaning both are equally expressed when present together.

- IO is recessive to both IA and IB.

The possible phenotypes and their corresponding genotypes are:

- Blood group A: IAIA or IAIO

- Blood group B: IBIB or IBIO

- Blood group AB: IAIB (both alleles are expressed equally, resulting in codominance)

- Blood group O: IOIO (only recessive alleles are present)

Determination of Sex in Humans

Sex in humans is determined by the combination of sex chromosomes:

- Females have two X chromosomes (XX).

- Males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome (XY).

During fertilisation:

- An egg always contributes an X chromosome.

- A sperm can contribute either an X or a Y chromosome.

- If the sperm contributes an X chromosome, the offspring is female (XX).

- If the sperm contributes a Y chromosome, the offspring is male (XY).

Gene Mutation and Sickle Cell Anaemia

A gene mutation is a random change in the base sequence of DNA. Sickle cell anaemia provides an
example:

- The mutation occurs in the gene coding for the beta-globin chain of haemoglobin.

- A single base substitution changes the codon for glutamic acid to valine.

- The mutated haemoglobin (HbS) causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped.

- These abnormal cells can block blood flow and result in symptoms like pain, anaemia, and organ damage.
Chromosome Mutation and Down's Syndrome

A chromosome mutation involves changes in the number or structure of chromosomes. Down's syndrome
is an example of a chromosome number mutation:

- It occurs due to trisomy 21, where an individual has three copies of chromosome 21 instead of two.

- This results in a total of 47 chromosomes instead of the normal 46.

- Characteristics include intellectual disability, distinct facial features, and potential health complications.

Sources of Genetic Variation in Populations

Genetic variation in populations arises from several sources:

- Mutation: Random changes in DNA sequence.

- Meiosis: Processes such as crossing over and independent assortment create new combinations of
alleles.

- Random Mating: Any individual can mate with another, increasing genetic diversity.

- Random Fertilisation: The fusion of gametes is random, leading to unique genetic combinations.

Factors Increasing Mutation Rates

Some factors increase the rate of mutation, including:

- Ionising radiation: Examples include X-rays, gamma rays, and UV light, which can damage DNA.

- Chemical mutagens: Substances like tobacco smoke and certain industrial chemicals can alter DNA
structure.

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