Double monosomy mosaicism (45,X-45, XX,21-) in a retarded child with multiple congenital malformations

Prenatal detection of two different monosomic cell lines by chorionic villus sampling

We present a prenatal case of mosaicism with at least two monosomy cell lines: one with monosomy 21 (45,XY,-21) and one missing the Y (45,X) and a possible third 46,XY in chorionic villus cell culture. Cytogenetic studies were initiated following the ultrasound detection at 11 weeks of a large cystic hygroma and in utero growth retardation. Spontaneous fetal demise occurred at 12 weeks and the pregnancy was terminated. To our knowledge, this is the first report of two different monosomic cell lines found in chorionic villus cells.

Molecular genetics of human chromosome 21

Chromosome 21 is the smallest autosome, comprising only about 1.9% of human DNA, but represents one of the most intensively studied regions of the genome. Much of the interest in chromosome 21 can be attributed to its association with Down's syndrome, a genetic disorder that afflicts one in every 700 to 1000 newborns. Although only 17 genes have been assigned to chromosome 21, a very large number of cloned DNA segments of unknown function have been isolated and regionally mapped. The majority of these segments detect restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) and therefore represent useful genetic markers. Continued molecular genetic investigation of chromosome 21 will be central to elucidating molecular events leading to meiotic non-disjunction and consequent trisomy, the contribution of specific genes to the pathology of Down's syndrome, and the possible role of chromosome 21 in Alzheimer's disease and other as yet unmapped genetic defects.

The phenotype Ae1B: a probable result of chimerism

An apparently normal healthy adult with the blood group phenotype Ae1B is described. The unusual ABO group is apparently the result of chimerism, the proportion of the minor population of cells being so small as to be only detectable by absorption and elution techniques.

Four new cases of ring 21 and 22 including familial transmission of ring 21

Four new cases of ring G chromosomes are presented including one family in which the ring 21 is present in a mother and in her daughter, who has 47, XXX, r(21) chromosomes. The clinical and dermatoglyphic findings in r21 and r22 syndromes are reviewed.