Modern genetic testing is able to examine human DNA and reveal mutations in genes that can cause disease. Genetic mutations can be inherited by offspring. By comparing a human's DNA with a control sample, scientists are able to distinguish DNA mutations.
Mutation of certain genes can cause illness and disease.
Example: Mutations occurring in the 16th chromosome have been linked to developmental disorders.
Human activities and environmental factors can increase the frequency of gene mutations.
Smoking and X-ray exposure are causes of gene mutation.
Ethical Concern
The privacy of genetic information is a cause for ethical concern. If insurance companies deny someone insurance based on their genetic predisposition for certain diseases, is that ethical?
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Human DNA lab results
Source: Biology Concepts & Connections Fifth Edition Neil A. Campbell, et all.
