Genetic disorders of the brain . Genetic disorders of the brain are caused by a variation or mutation in a gene. A variation or alteration is a different form of a gene. A mutation is a change in the gene itself. Genetic brain disorders affect the development and function of the brain .
Some genetic brain disorders are caused by genetic mutations or random mutations caused by environmental exposure, such as the smoke of the cigarette . Other diseases are inherited, which means that a mutant gene or a group of mutant genes is passed on between relatives. There are also disorders caused by a combination of gene changes and other external factors.
Some examples of genetic brain disorders are:
- Leukodystrophies
- Phenylketonuria
- Tay-Sachs disease
- Wilson’s disease
Many people with genetic brain disorders cannot produce enough of certain proteins that influence brain development and function. These disorders can cause serious problems that affect the nervous system. Some of these disorders have treatments to control symptoms. Some others are life threatening.
