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Exploring MedlinePlus Genetics Resources

Apr 28, 2025

MedlinePlus: Genetics

Introduction

  • MedlinePlus Genetics is a government website providing consumer-friendly information about the effects of genetic variation on human health.
  • Part of the National Institutes of Health and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Key Sections

Genetic Conditions

  • Information on over 1,300 health conditions with a genetic basis.
  • Details on signs, symptoms, causes, and inheritance.

Genes

  • Covers the function of over 1,400 genes.
  • Explains how gene changes relate to health conditions.

Chromosomes and mtDNA

  • Information on the 23 pairs of human chromosomes and mitochondrial DNA.

Help Me Understand Genetics

  • Resources to explore human genetics topics, from DNA basics to genomic research and personalized medicine.

Related Health Topics

  • Genes and Gene Therapy
  • Genetic Disorders
  • Genetic Testing
  • Newborn Screening

Understanding Genetics

  • What is DNA? – Functions and structure.
  • What is a gene? – Definition and role in the body.
  • What is a gene variant and how do variants occur? – Explanation of mutations.
  • What does it mean if a disorder seems to run in my family? – Understanding inheritance patterns.

Additional Resources

Contact and Support

  • Customer support available through the National Library of Medicine.
  • Various social media platforms for updates (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram).

Accessibility and Policies

  • Accessibility guidelines and copyright information available on the site.
  • MedlinePlus Connect for EHRs and developer resources.

Feedback Options

  • Users can provide feedback on the helpfulness of the page.

Useful Links

This summary serves as a guide to the resources and information available on MedlinePlus Genetics, helping users to explore genetic information relevant to health and medicine.