Question

What is the pattern of inheritance in neural tube defects?

• A. Autosomal dominant
• B. X-linked dominant
• C. Autosomal recessive
• D. Multifactorial inheritance

Hint:

Neural tube defects are typically caused by multifactorial inheritance, meaning both genetic and environmental factors, such as maternal folic acid deficiency, contribute to the condition.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Autosomal dominant: This is incorrect. Neural tube defects are not inherited in a classic autosomal dominant pattern. In dominant inheritance, one copy of the gene is sufficient to express the trait, but this is not the case for neural tube defects.
X-linked dominant: This is also incorrect. X-linked dominant inheritance involves defects in genes located on the X chromosome, but neural tube defects are not primarily inherited in this manner.
Autosomal recessive: This is not the correct inheritance pattern for most neural tube defects. Although some genetic mutations related to neural tube defects may be inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, the majority of cases are due to multifactorial inheritance involving a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Multifactorial inheritance: This is the correct answer. Neural tube defects (such as spina bifida and anencephaly) are generally considered to be multifactorial, meaning they arise due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. This pattern of inheritance explains why the defects may recur in families, but not in a predictable pattern like autosomal recessive or dominant conditions. Thus, the correct answer is Multifactorial inheritance (4), as neural tube defects result from the interaction of multiple genetic factors and environmental influences.