Question

Among the options below, which disorders have been linked with Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs)?

a) Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease
b) Cystic fibrosis, Sickle cell anemia
c) Fragile X syndrome, Myotonic dystrophy
d) Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome

Answer 1

Fragile X syndrome and Myotonic dystrophy are disorders linked with Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs), which involve variations in DNA sequences that affect gene function.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the disorders linked with Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs), the correct answer is c) Fragile X syndrome, Myotonic dystrophy. Variable Number Tandem Repeats are repeated sequences of DNA that can vary in length between individuals and can be harnessed in whole-genome sequencing to discern genetic variability. These repeats play a role in a number of hereditary diseases.

For example, Fragile X syndrome is associated with a VNTR in the FMR1 gene, leading to a form of intellectual disability. On the other hand, Myotonic dystrophy is characterized by extended repeats in the DMPK gene, which affects muscle function. Both diseases exhibit patterns of inheritance linked to these variable repeats.