Enzyme - A protein that accelerates chemical reactions. Gastrostomy Tube - a small valve that is used to feed a person who is sometimes unable to feed themselves. The valve goes directly to the stomach of the person and is put in place by a minor operation. The coded instructions that govern the make-up of every human being. Each gene carries instructions for the production of a specific protein.
Genes usually come in palrs one lnherited from each parent.
They are passed on from one generation to the next and are the basic units of inherkance. Genetic Counselllng - information and support provided by a specialist usually a doctor or nurse to people who have genetic conditions in their families or who are concerned about the future possibility of genetically transmuted conditions. Genetic Markers - Harmless variations in the DNA which lie close to the site of a disrupted gene which may be used for tracking the condition through a family. Gene Therapy - A potential method of treatment for genetic disorders which involves making correct copies of the gene in question and then transporting them into the cells of the body. Linkage Studies - These are tests carried out on various family members to establish which is the crucial bit of genetic code causing a particular condition in that family.