The accompanying pedigree shows a family in which one child (II-1) has an autosomal recessive condition. On the basis of this fact alone, provide the following information.

Using the same alleles, give the possible genotypes for II-2, II-3, and II-4. <>

Key Concepts

Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

Autosomal recessive inheritance occurs when a trait or condition is expressed only when an individual has two copies of the recessive allele, one inherited from each parent. In this case, if a child (II-1) has an autosomal recessive condition, both parents must either be carriers (heterozygous) or affected (homozygous recessive). This concept is crucial for determining the possible genotypes of other family members.

Genotype and Phenotype

The genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an individual, specifically the alleles present at a given locus, while the phenotype is the observable expression of those genes. In the context of the pedigree, understanding the relationship between genotype and phenotype helps in predicting the likelihood of other family members (II-2, II-3, II-4) exhibiting the recessive condition based on their potential genotypes.

Pedigree Analysis

Pedigree analysis is a method used to trace the inheritance patterns of traits through generations in a family. By examining the pedigree, one can infer the genotypes of individuals based on the presence or absence of traits, as well as the relationships between family members. This analysis is essential for determining the possible genotypes of II-2, II-3, and II-4 in relation to the autosomal recessive condition of II-1.