Question

Why is sickle cell anemia classified as a recessive disorder?

Answer 1

Sickle cell anemia is a recessive disorder because it is caused by a mutation in the beta-globin gene that produces abnormal hemoglobin called hemoglobin S, leading to serious symptoms in individuals who have two mutated genes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Why is Sickle Cell Anemia Classified as a Recessive Disorder?

Sickle cell anemia is classified as a recessive disorder because it is caused by a mutation in the beta-globin gene of hemoglobin, specifically, a single base pair change from GAG to GTG. This mutation results in the production of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S, rather than the normal hemoglobin A. Individuals with one mutated gene (carriers) do not exhibit the severe symptoms of the disease, a condition known as sickle cell trait, because they still produce some normal hemoglobin. However, those who inherit two copies of the mutated gene (homozygous recessive) produce predominately hemoglobin S, leading to the manifestation of sickle cell anemia. The sickle-shaped red blood cells caused by this disorder can lead to complications such as blocking blood flow, oxygen delivery issues, and various other health problems. Furthermore, the prevalence of the sickle cell gene in some populations is due to the heterozygote advantage against malaria, as carriers are less susceptible to severe malaria infections.

Answer 2

The real reason for this classification is that the sickle anemia affects some people and not the entire family nor further generations. That is why is only a recessive disorder and not a progressive one