In X-linked recessive disorders, which statement is true regarding males?

Prepare for the AAB Molecular Diagnostics Test with focused study materials and practice questions. Gain insights into questions, formats, and key topics to excel in your exam and advance your career in molecular diagnostics.

In X-linked recessive disorders, males are more frequently affected than females due to the way the X and Y chromosomes are inherited. Males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY), meaning they have only one copy of the gene located on the X chromosome. If that single X chromosome carries a mutation associated with an X-linked recessive disorder, the male will express the disorder because there is no corresponding allele on the Y chromosome that could counteract or mask the defective gene.

Females, on the other hand, have two X chromosomes (XX). Therefore, they can be carriers of the disorder without showing symptoms, as they might inherit one mutated X chromosome and one normal X chromosome. For a female to express an X-linked recessive disorder, she must have two copies of the mutated gene—one on each X chromosome. This genetic dynamic explains why males are more likely to be affected by X-linked recessive conditions.

The other statements are not accurate. Males cannot be carriers of X-linked recessive disorders in the same way females can; they will express the disorder if they inherit the mutated gene. They cannot pass the disorder to their sons, as males pass on their Y chromosome to male offspring. Males may have female offspring that are

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy