What is the inheritance pattern for Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) follows an X-linked recessive inheritance pattern, which is crucial for understanding its genetics and implications for affected individuals and their families. This means that the gene responsible for DMD is located on the X chromosome, one of the two sex chromosomes in humans.

In X-linked recessive inheritance, males (who have one X and one Y chromosome) are more frequently affected because they need only one copy of the mutated gene to express the disorder. Females, on the other hand, have two X chromosomes, so they can be carriers of the disorder without exhibiting symptoms if they have one normal and one mutated gene. A carrier female has a 50% chance of passing the mutated gene to her sons, who will then be affected, and a 50% chance of passing it to her daughters, who may become carriers.

Understanding this inheritance pattern is critical for genetic counseling, as it informs families about the risks of transmission and the likelihood of future children being affected. It also helps in recognizing the need for early diagnosis and management of the condition.