What type of chromosomal disorder is familial Adenomatous polyposis coli?

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is characterized as an autosomal dominant disorder. This means that a person only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene from one parent to be affected by the condition. FAP results from mutations in the APC gene, which is located on chromosome 5. Individuals with this genetic mutation develop numerous polyps in the colon and rectum, which have a high potential to progress to colorectal cancer if not managed appropriately.

In autosomal dominant inheritance, the trait can be passed down through generations, with each affected individual having a 50% chance of passing the condition on to their offspring. This pattern of inheritance explains why FAP can present in multiple family members and emphasizes the importance of genetic counseling for affected families.

Other types of inheritance, such as X-linked, autosomal recessive, or complex multifactorial, do not fit the characteristics of FAP. In X-linked disorders, the gene causing the abnormality is located on the X chromosome and typically affects males more severely than females. Autosomal recessive disorders require two copies of the mutant gene for the condition to manifest, which is not the case with FAP. Complex multifactorial traits involve multiple genes and environmental factors,