Page 1: Introduction to Pedigree Analysis

This page introduces the fundamental concepts of pedigree analysis and how to interpret genetic inheritance patterns. The content focuses on the basic structure and symbols used in pedigree charts, along with methods for determining inheritance patterns.

Definition: A pedigree is a family tree chart that tracks inheritance patterns of specific traits across multiple generations.

Vocabulary:

• Roman numerals represent generations
• Squares represent males
• Circles represent females
• Solid shapes indicate affected individuals
• Empty shapes show unaffected individuals

Highlight: Two key principles for determining inheritance patterns:

1. Dominant traits appear in every generation while recessive traits skip generations
2. Autosomal traits affect both sexes equally while sex-linked traits predominantly affect males

Example: In an autosomal dominant pedigree:

• The trait appears in every generation
• Both males and females are affected equally
• Each affected person has at least one affected parent