Which type of disorder is associated with Muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is primarily associated with X-linked recessive disorders. This type of disorder occurs due to mutations on the X chromosome, and because males have only one X chromosome, they are more severely affected than females, who have two X chromosomes and may be carriers without showing severe symptoms.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the most common form, demonstrates this inheritance pattern clearly. It is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene on the X chromosome. Since females have two X chromosomes, they can have one mutated gene and one normal gene, allowing them to produce some dystrophin, which provides a level of protection against the disease. In contrast, males inherit only one X chromosome from their mother, so if that chromosome carries the mutation, they will express the disorder.

Understanding this genetic basis is crucial for recognizing the profound implications of X-linked recessive disorders, including inheritance patterns and risks for family members. The link between muscular dystrophy and the X chromosome highlights the importance of genetics in understanding and researching this condition.