Genetics with Basics of Selection - M.P. Myhun - 2008

Chapter VII. Human Genetics (Anthropogenetics)

7.5. Heredity and Ecology

The interaction of organisms and populations with environmental factors is of particular importance today. Both HEREDITY AND ENVIRONMENT play a crucial role in the Pathogenesis of any disease. In recent decades, the incidence of hereditary and other diseases has increased significantly due to adverse environmental conditions.

Numerous variations in enzyme systems, Cell receptors, and their antigenic Structure determine individual differences in human responses to various chemical substances, biological agents, or physical factors. The branch of genetics that investigates the GENETIC BASIS OF organismal sensitivity to environmental factors is called ecological genetics. It has been revealed that hereditary differences can manifest in responses to specific medications, physical factors, food products (particularly food additives), Water and air pollution, and occupational hazards.

Increased concentrations of mutagens in the environment contribute to the spread of Mutations among living organisms and increase the genetic load on all populations, including humans. The ability to induce mutations at low concentrations and doses, the lack of threshold doses for ionizing radiation and certain Chemotherapy drugs, and the capacity of radioactive and other mutagens to accumulate in Cells all significantly heighten the threat of damage to genetic systems.

It should be noted that mutagenic activity can be exhibited not only by Physical and Chemical factors, but also by certain agents of biological origin—metabolic products of microorganisms, foreign DNA, and Viruses such as smallpox, measles, Influenza, and hepatitis. Certain endogenous metabolites produced within Multicellular Organisms are also classified as mutagens.

When assessing the biological EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL and endogenous mutagens, it must be considered that they act in synergy, which significantly increases their overall impact. Consequently, developed countries maintain continuous Genetic monitoring for the purpose of preventing and timely detecting the Genetic consequences of these factors.