Chapter 25, Problem 14CONQ

Marfan syndrome is due to a mutation in a gene that encodes a protein called fibrillin-1. It is inherited as a dominant trait. The fibrillin-1 protein is the main constituent of extracellular microfibrils. These microfibrils can exist as individual fibers or associate with a protein called elastin to form elastic fibers. People with the disorder tend to be unusually tall with long limbs, and they may have defects in their heart valves and aorta. Let’s suppose a phenotypically unaffected woman has a child with a man who has Marfan syndrome.

A. What is the probability this child will have the disease?

B. If this couple has three children, what is the probability that none of them will have Marfan syndrome?