Chapter 23, Problem 1CT

Summary Introduction

To explain: Whether it seems likely that a “gene therapy” program might be able to correct the genetic problems and help cheetahs make a comeback.

Introduction: Inbreeding is a type of mating mechanism where two very closely related organisms of a single species (siblings or between child and a parent) mate and produce offspring. Inbreeding is illegal for Homo sapiens. Inbreeding decreases the hybrid vigor and often results in spontaneous abortion or death of the offspring before sexual maturity. It is very rare that the offspring of inbred parents attain sexual maturity and procreates. Inbreeding accumulates lethal mutations in the offspring.