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Autosomal dominant

Definition(s)

A gene on one of the non-sex chromosomes that is always expressed, even if only one copy is present.: Definition from: Human Genome Project Information at the U.S. Department of Energy
Describes a trait or disorder in which the phenotype is expressed in those who have inherited only one copy of a particular gene mutation (heterozygotes); specifically refers to a gene on one of the 22 pairs of autosomes (non-sex chromosomes): Definition from: GeneTests from the University of Washington and the National Center for Biotechnology Information
Autosomal dominance is a pattern of inheritance characteristic of some genetic diseases. "Autosomal" means that the gene in question is located on one of the numbered, or non-sex, chromosomes. "Dominant" means that a single copy of the disease-associated mutation is enough to cause the disease. This is in contrast to a recessive disorder, where two copies of the mutation are needed to cause the disease. Huntington's disease is a common example of an autosomal dominant genetic disorder.: Definition from: Talking Glossary of Genetic Terms from the National Human Genome Research Institute


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