Chromosome 19

Chromosome 19 is one of the 23 pairs of chromosomes in humans. Humans normally have two copies of this chromosome. Chromosome 19 spans more than 58.6 million base pairs, the building material of DNA. It represents between 1.5 and 2% of the total DNA in cells.

Genes

Chromosome 19 has the highest gene density of all human chromosomes, more than double the average. This high gene density is due to the large number of small genes, many of which are involved in the immune system and nervous system development and function. A number of disease-related genes are also found on chromosome 19, including those related to Type 1 diabetes, myotonic dystrophy, and familial hypercholesterolemia.

Diseases and disorders

Several diseases and disorders are linked to genes on chromosome 19. This includes Familial hypercholesterolemia, which is associated with high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of early heart disease. Other conditions linked to chromosome 19 include Myotonic dystrophy, a form of muscular dystrophy, and Migraine, a neurological condition characterized by severe headaches and sensory disturbances.

Research

Research is ongoing to identify additional genes on chromosome 19 and to learn more about the role these genes play in health and disease. This research is expected to lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions associated with this chromosome.

See also

• Human genome
• Genetic disorder
• Chromosome abnormality