What kind of inheritance pattern is represented by Tay-Sachs disease?

Tay-Sachs disease is characterized by an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. This means that for an individual to express the disease, they must inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent. If a person has only one copy of the mutated gene (carrying the trait without showing symptoms), they are considered a carrier. Parents who are both carriers have a 25% chance of having a child affected by Tay-Sachs disease with each pregnancy.

This inheritance pattern is significant because it illustrates how genetic disorders can remain hidden within a population until both parents pass on the recessive allele. Tay-Sachs affects the nervous system, leading to severe neurological impairment and often resulting in early childhood mortality. Understanding the pattern of inheritance aids in genetic counseling and provides insights into potential risks for families with a history of the disease.