Letter A

Anticipation

2 views

A remarkable phenomenon in which a genetic disease appears earlier appearance and with increased from with each succeeding generation.

Anticipation was once thought not to exist in genetics.

It was chalked off as a meaningless statistical artifact.

However, anticipation has now been proven to occur in a large number of important genetic disorders, including Huntington disease and myotonic dystrophy.

In molecular terms, anticipation is due to the expansion of a trinucleotide repeat sequence in the DNA.

This phenomenon also occurs in the fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited form of mental retardation

Share this definition

Medical disclaimer

The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice in any way.

  • It does not replace the advice of a physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
  • It does not represent a prescription of drugs, diagnostic exams or therapies.
  • In case of symptoms, doubts or concerns about your health, always consult a qualified physician.

In case of emergency call 911 (US) or 112 (EU).