What is a single gene or “Mendelian” disorder?
A single gene, monogenic, or “Mendelian” disorder is caused by a mutation in a single gene. Because the science of single gene disorders is well understood, genetic testing can accurately predict whether a given couple is at risk for conceiving a child with such a disorder. The Universal Genetic Test allows you to test for Mendelian disorders. By contrast, complex diseases like diabetes, asthma, and depression are affected by many genes, as well as environmental variables and random chance. There is currently no genetic test that can tell you definitively whether you or your children will be affected by these complex diseases.
