Translocation (Lat. Trans - Through, Locus - Place)

Translocation (from the Latin trans - through, locus - place) is a genetic disorder in which a section of one chromosome is transferred to another, non-homologous chromosome. This disorder can occur anywhere on a chromosome and can affect one or both chromosomes of a pair.

Translocations can be balanced or unbalanced. A balanced translocation means that the chromosomal information is still fully present, but is distributed differently. An unbalanced translocation means that chromosomal information is lost or duplicated, which can lead to serious health consequences.

Translocations can occur both during evolution and in humans as a result of random mutation. Some balanced translocations do not cause any symptoms, and people with them can live their entire lives without knowing it. However, unbalanced translocations can lead to various diseases such as developmental delays, mental retardation, vision and hearing problems, and an increased risk of many genetically determined diseases.

Translocations can be detected using cytogenetic and molecular genetic research methods. If a person is diagnosed with a translocation, he may need to consult a geneticist to assess the risk of passing on inherited diseases to his descendants.

In conclusion, translocation is a serious genetic disorder that can lead to various diseases and an increased risk of passing on inherited diseases to offspring. However, thanks to modern research methods, the identification of translocations has become possible, which allows for preventive measures to be taken to prevent possible diseases.