Question

Explain how an unbalanced translocation occurs and how it affects humans

Answer 1

Translocations may be balanced when there is an even exchange of material with no genetic information extra or missing, and ideally full functionality. Or can be unbalanced where the exchange of chromosome material is unequal resulting in extra or missing genes. For example a child who has an unbalanced translocation may have learning disabilities, developmental delay and health problems. The seriousness of the disability depends on exactly which parts of which chromosomes are involved and how much missing or extra chromosome material present.