Down Syndrome
As Down’s syndrome refers to a specific genome mutation in humans, in which the entire 21st Chromosomes or parts there of which three (trisomy). Therefore, is another common term trisomy 21. In addition to the syndrome as a typical current physical characteristics are generally the cognitive abilities of the affected people affected, so that it can come to a mental disability.
The tripling of the corresponding genetic material occurs by an unusual distribution process during cell division at the stage of meiosis or mitosis, which on the existence of additional genetic material of the 21st Chromosome leads. This leads to varying degrees, at an unusual cognitive and physical development.
The various forms of trisomy 21 arise spontaneously and can only be inherited in the sense of a genetic disease, even if the mother already has Down syndrome. One form of Down syndrome can occur in families, however, provided a Balanced translocation 21st one Chromosome in Down’s syndrome without a parent present. This favors the occurrence of translocation trisomy 21 in the child.