Why are cousin marriages being blamed for the birth of a baby with two faces?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the controversial link between cousin marriages and the occurrence of congenital anomalies, specifically a rare condition resulting in a baby born with two faces. Participants express skepticism regarding the assertion that cousin marriages are solely responsible for such abnormalities, citing historical context where these unions have not led to significant issues. The condition is attributed to mis-regulation of the SHH protein, which has been linked to abnormal development in various species, including chicks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of genetic concepts, particularly inbreeding and its effects on offspring.
  • Familiarity with congenital anomalies and their biological underpinnings.
  • Knowledge of the SHH (Sonic Hedgehog) protein and its role in development.
  • Awareness of historical and cultural perspectives on cousin marriages.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the genetic implications of inbreeding in human populations.
  • Study the role of the SHH protein in developmental biology.
  • Examine case studies of congenital anomalies linked to genetic factors.
  • Explore cultural attitudes towards cousin marriages across different societies.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for geneticists, medical professionals, sociologists, and anyone interested in the implications of cousin marriages on genetic health and congenital conditions.

FAlonso
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I find it hard to swallow the explanation that cousin marriages are responsible. Guess humanity has been watching these marriages for centuries and nothing dramatic or too much of it has happened but why now ?

Not for the weak heart
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baby-with-two-faces-3.jpg


http://www.scientiaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/baby-with-two-faces-2.jpg

http://www.scientiaweb.com/2011/09/25/baby-with-two-faces-born-in-rawalpindi-pakistan/"
 
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This is a known but very rare condition caused by a mis-regulation of SHH protein. In developing chick arms this has been shown to cause odd symmetrical developments.
http://i.quizlet.net/i/VD6pmVjeyUDJshPOc5Io-w_m.jpg
 
FAlonso said:
I find it hard to swallow the explanation that cousin marriages are responsible. Guess humanity has been watching these marriages for centuries and nothing dramatic or too much of it has happened but why now ?

Why is that? I don't know about this specific case but first cousin marriages many times result in abnormal offspring. It happens due to something called inbreeding.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inbreeding
 

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