STEAM Projects

 

 

Triple X syndrome is a rare genetic condition caused by mutations in the number of sex chromosomes. Specifically, women with triple X syndrome have three X chromosomes, rather than two. Such mutation arises from errors in meiosis. In prophase I, the homologous chromosomes fail to divide, initiating a faulty start to the entire division process. Although trisomy typically leads to lethality, trisomy of the X chromosomes does not, allowing the female to live a semi-normal to normal life.

For this project I modeled meiosis using clay.

One Comment

  1. Sarah’s STEAM project shows and explains the process of Triple X Syndrome, which is when women have 3 X chromosomes. This happens during Meiosis, which is the transferring of sex chromosomes, or gametes. Failure to divide during Meiosis 1 is what causes this to happen. Triple X syndrome is, through a process of silencing in germ cells, not lethal as long as it does not involve autosomal cells. Unfortunately, it is not without it’s effects. With about only 10% being diagnosed each year, symptoms observed have been linked to depression and other psychological disorders, as well as learning disorders and visible physical differences. Sarah’s project shows each stage of Meiosis 1 and 2 occurring, and we can see in phase 1 how the resulting gamete has two X chromosomes instead of one, as this is where the split went wrong (trisomy x). Although a diagnosable diseases, and not without its trials and tribulations, females can live mostly normal lives even before or after diagnoses. This does require living a healthy lifestyle, often involving healthy eating and exercising habits. They can do so because although they have this genetic mutation of 3 X-chromosomes, only two are active and the third is dormant. Its presence, sadly, is what still causes the minor symptoms above, which if not handled correctly could become life-impairing disorders. Without proper nutrients and transportation of said nutrients and vitamins, the body has a higher chance of creating a scenario for the trisomy X to happen in Meiosis 1.

    Kristina l robinson

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