A Cytogenetic Study and Search for Suspected Fragile X Chromosomes in Selected Individuals from the Chaldean Population in Detroit

Abstract

Many Chaldean families exhibit a high incidence of X-linked mental retardation. One possible explanation for ·this phenomenon is the presence of an inherited fragile X chromosome. A cytogenetic analysis of peripheral blood lymphocytes from several individuals from Chaldean families was performed. Fragile~X chromosomes were found in three individuals; however, the heritability was not established. A possible new fragile site on chromosome 2 was seen in several individuals, but again, heritability was not shown. One family was found in which a high amount of breakage in certain cells was observed.