Whats the difference between simple and complex genetic diseases?
In simple genetic diseases, such as sickle cell disease or cystic fibrosis, a person who inherits a copy of the defective gene from each parent is certain to get the disease. Multifactorial (also called complex or polygenic) – This type is caused by a combination of environmental factors and mutations in multiple genes. For example, different genes that influence breast cancer susceptibility have been found on chromosomes 6, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, and 22. Its more complicated nature makes it much more difficult to analyze than single-gene or chromosomal disorders. Some of the most common chronic disorders are multifactorial. Examples include heart disease, high blood pressure, Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.
