Genetic modifying factors in beta-thalassemia.
The beta-thalassemia is probably the most extensively studied genetic disease. Essentially any molecular defect that has been first described in association with the globin genes has been later implicated as a molecular determinant of newly discovered genes. Accordingly, the thalassemias have always represented a model genetic disease, especially in relation to the development of programs for population screening, genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis. Here we will review the present knowledge on the genetics of thalassemia and of the relevant modifying factors. Major categories of the carrier state, the genotypes, the clinical phenotypes and the correlation between genotype and phenotype will be discussed.
Cao
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A
Istituto di Clinica e Biologia dell'Età Evolutiva, Università di Cagliari, Italy. acao@mcweb.unica.it
Moi
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P
D004909:Erythrocyte Indices; D005260:Female; D005319:Fetal Hemoglobin / Q000378:metabolism; D006580:Genetic Carrier Screening; D005820:Genetic Testing; D005838:Genotype; D006443:Hemoglobin A2 / Q000378:metabolism; D006579:Heterozygote; D006720:Homozygote; D006801:Humans; D009154:Mutation; D010641:Phenotype; D011247:Pregnancy; D017086:beta-Thalassemia / Q000097:blood / Q000235:genetics*
D006443:Hemoglobin A2; D005319:Fetal Hemoglobin