What decision did folk singer Arlo Guthrie make regarding genetic …

Biology Questions

What decision did folk singer Arlo Guthrie make regarding genetic testing for Huntington’s disease, and what was the outcome? 1) He had genetic testing and was found not to be genetically susceptible. 2) He chose not to have genetic testing and did not develop the disease. 3) Genetic testing found that he was a carrier and he was successfully treated. 4) He chose not to have genetic testing but is now incapacitated by the disease.

Short Answer

Arlo Guthrie chose not to undergo genetic testing for Huntington’s disease, which leaves uncertainty about his genetic status and potential risks. As of now, there is no indication that he has developed symptoms of the disease.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understanding Huntington’s Disease

Huntington’s disease is a debilitating genetic disorder caused by a dominant mutation. This means that an individual with just one copy of the altered gene will eventually develop the disease. Patients typically do not show symptoms until they reach middle age, raising challenging questions about inheritance and family planning.

Step 2: Arlo Guthrie’s Decision

Arlo Guthrie, the son of the famous folk musician Woody Guthrie, faced the choice of undergoing genetic testing to determine if he inherited the gene for Huntington’s disease. Acknowledging the risks, he decided against the testing, which left ambiguity surrounding his genetic status. It was a deeply personal decision that reflected his thoughts on family and the implications of passing on the disease.

Step 3: Current Status and Conclusion

As of now, there is no public information indicating that Arlo Guthrie has developed symptoms of Huntington’s disease. Ultimately, his decision not to pursue genetic testing means we do not know if he carries the gene. Therefore, the conclusion stands: he chose not to have genetic testing and did not develop the disease.

Related Concepts

Huntington’S Disease

Defining genetic disorder caused by a dominant mutation leading to neurodegeneration

Genetic Testing

Medical process used to determine the presence of specific genes associated with diseases

Dominant Mutation

A genetic alteration that manifests in an individual even when only one copy of the altered gene is present.

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