Pre-Conception

Pre-Conception

The Genetic Code

Our genes are comprised of DNA and found on chromosomes that are passed on from both biological parents. Genes encode proteins which are the biological basis of all human characteristics. When a sperm and ovum (gametes with 23 chromosomes) meet during conception a zygote is created with genetic material from each parent, totalling 46 chromosomes. Different characteristics that humans possess have different patterns of genetic inheritance depending on the trait. For example, some conditions are autosomal dominant which means having only one affected allele (section of genetic code) out of a possible two copies is enough to cause that person to possess that condition. Biological sex is determined by the 23rd pair of chromosomes known as the sex chromosomes in which female is determined as XX and male is determined as XY.

Many mental illnesses run in families, although there is rarely a pinpoint genetic basis. Epigenetics is the study of the combination of genetic and environmental influences that lead to the development of a disorder, such as specific mental illnesses.