thalassemia Flashcards
1
Q
describe thalassemia disease
A
- alters the structure of hemoglobin
- less hemoglobin in red blood cells = cannot carry as much oxygen
- recessive
2
Q
where is thalassemia more common?
A
malaria-affected areas
3
Q
how does malaria affect thalassemia?
A
selective agent
- increased frequency of the alleles of alpha thalassemia
4
Q
what is the result of lower hemoglobin?
A
more protection against malaria + recover quicker (increased RBC)
5
Q
what are the two types of thalassemia?
A
alpha + beta
6
Q
who is affected by thalassemia?
A
mediterraian/ greek areas
7
Q
describe alpha thalassemia
A
- mutation on the HBA gene on chromosome 16
- reduces the level of alpha globin in hemoglobin
8
Q
describe beta thalassemia
A
- mutation in the HBB gene on chromosome 11
- reduces the level of beta-globin in hemoglobin
9
Q
what happens when someone has a homozygous disease?
A
- more prone to malaria
- less likely to reach reproductive age
10
Q
what happens when the condition is heterozygous?
A
- resistance to malaria
- survive to reproduce
