* Carriers possess one copy of the faulty gene: They inherit one normal gene and one gene carrying the mutation. Since they have one normal gene, they don't experience the disorder themselves.
* 50% chance of transmission: Each time a carrier has a child, there's a 50% chance of passing on the faulty gene.
* Recessive inheritance: Many genetic disorders are recessive, meaning both copies of the gene need to be faulty for the disorder to manifest. A carrier, with only one faulty gene, is fine, but their child has a chance of inheriting the faulty gene from both parents.
Example: Cystic fibrosis is a recessive disorder. If both parents are carriers, each child has a 25% chance of having cystic fibrosis, a 50% chance of being a carrier like their parents, and a 25% chance of inheriting two normal genes and being unaffected.
It's important to note that the exact probability of transmitting a genetic disorder depends on the specific condition and the family history. Genetic counseling can help individuals understand their risk and make informed decisions about family planning.
