Medical Molecular Mechanisms Behind Maternal Age and Down Syndrome Risk

Thread starter Tyto alba
Start date Feb 20, 2017
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genetics

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The increase in maternal age correlates with a higher risk of having offspring with Down Syndrome primarily due to the age-related decline in oocyte quality and the mechanisms of chromosomal segregation during meiosis. As women age, the likelihood of errors during cell division increases, leading to aneuploidy, which is the presence of an abnormal number of chromosomes. This is particularly relevant for the 21st chromosome, which, when present in three copies, results in Down Syndrome. Research indicates that the molecular basis involves factors such as oxidative stress, changes in gene expression, and alterations in the spindle assembly checkpoint, which are more pronounced in older oocytes. For further detailed information, the article from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) is a recommended resource.

Feb 20, 2017

Tyto alba

Why does increase in age of the mother increases the chance of having an offspring with Down Syndrome?

I want to know the molecular basis of this observation. I'll be grateful if somebody could recommend an authentic source in this regard.

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Feb 20, 2017

Ygggdrasil

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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3313661/

Feb 20, 2017

Tyto alba

Appreciated.

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