Down Syndrome

Front Cover
Infobase Publishing, 2009 - Juvenile Nonfiction - 145 pages
Down syndrome is a developmental disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. This extra genetic material causes changes in the production of various proteins, such as enzymes and cell adhesion molecules, which can disrupt metabolic pathways and cause defects in organ development. Modern medical advances and the development of early interventions have reduced the impact of Down syndrome, and as a result, individuals with Down syndrome can now live longer and have fewer physical and intellectual difficulties. Down Syndrome explains this genetic disease, its history and characteristics, and what scientists are doing to study it.
 

Contents

What Is Down Syndrome
7
DNA Blueprint for Life
19
Gene Expression
31
Genetic Diseases
38
DNA Technology
49
Health Issues in Down Syndrome
63
Down Syndrome and the Brain
83
Interventions and Treatments
102
Glossary
114
Bibliography
120
Further Reading
137
Picture Credits
139
Index
140
About the Author
144
Copyright

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