Tag Archives: heritable

Genetic Cause of Acromegaly Revealed – Thanks to Irish Giant

The bones of an Irish Giant have helped researchers identify a genetic mutation that is the cause of a condition called acromegaly. This condition is heritable, and there are between 200 and 300 people today who carry the genetic mutation. Thanks to this research, it may be possible for a blood test to identify and treat people who have this genetic mutation before they exhibit symptoms of acromegaly. Acromegaly is a chronic metabolic disorder. Too much growth hormone is produced, and this causes the body tissues to gradually enlarge more than would be typically expected. The growth occurs after the … Continue reading →

Male Pattern Baldness Explained By Genetics

Hair loss is more than a cosmetic issue. There is often an underlying health issue involved. Diseases like alopecia, which causes hair loss, runs in families. Male pattern baldness also is heritable. A new study has found some genetic clues that help explain more about male pattern baldness. When hair loss occurs, there is often a medical reason behind it. For example, alopecia is a disease that can cause a person to lose small patches of hair on his or head or body. Or, it may cause a person to completely lose all body hair. Some studies have suggested that … Continue reading →

Researchers Find Link Between Genetic Makeup and Depression

Depression is something that appears to run in families. If you are someone who has a tendency to suffer from some form of depression, you might be able to think of at least one other relative who also has experienced depressive episodes as well. It’s possible to be depressed, and have no idea why you feel so sad. A new study finds that your susceptibility to depression is in your genes. Whether you are feeling sad due to a seasonal depression, or as a response to a stressful event, one thing is true. Depression is something to take seriously. There … Continue reading →

Your Family Is Tall Due To Genetics

I’ve always heard that if you want to know how tall a child will be, you should look at their parents. I think that a lot of people have held the belief that height, or lack thereof, runs in families. A new study reveals insight into the genetics that are involved with height. I am just barely over five feet tall, (five feet, three inches, to be exact). My mother and sister are both about my height, give or take an inch or two. My grandmothers were both short as well. On the other hand, a good friend of mine … Continue reading →