The Science of Down syndrome
In every cell in the human body there is a nucleus, where genetic material is stored in genes. Genes carry the codes responsible for all of our inherited traits and are grouped along rod-like structures call chromosomes. Normally, the nucleus of each call contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent.
Down syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division called non-disjunction. Non-disjunction results in an embryo with with three copies of chromosomes 21 instead of the usual two. Prior to or at conception, a pair of 21st chromosomes in either the sperm or the egg fails to separate. As the embryo develops, the extra chromosome is replicated in every cell of the body. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with they syndrome.
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Down syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division called non-disjunction. Non-disjunction results in an embryo with with three copies of chromosomes 21 instead of the usual two. Prior to or at conception, a pair of 21st chromosomes in either the sperm or the egg fails to separate. As the embryo develops, the extra chromosome is replicated in every cell of the body. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with they syndrome.
Check out our Resource Page
Attend our Annual Celebrating Abilities Resource Fair
Attend our Women's Night Out
Contact one of our board members
