guidebook. - Fanconi Anemia Research Fund

Glossary
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Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH): A research
method to visualize and map the genetic material in
an individual’s cells, including specific genes or portions
of genes. This is important for understanding a
variety of chromosomal abnormalities and other genetic
mutations. Unlike most other techniques used to study
chromosomes, FISH does not have to be performed on
cells that are actively dividing. 14 This makes it a very
sensitive procedure for detecting chromosomal abnormalities.
Folate deficiency (aka folic acid): A type of B vitamin.
Folic acid is found naturally in dark-green leafy
vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and whole grains. Not
getting enough folate results in a form of megaloblastic
anemia. 5
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): A hormone from
the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates
the growth of the ovum-containing follicles in the ovary
in women and that activates sperm-forming cells in
men. At menopause in women, the level stays persistently
high.
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1): The volume of
air that can be forced out in one second after taking a
deep breath, an important measure of pulmonary function.
15
Founder effect: The effect on the resulting gene pool
that occurs when a new isolated population is founded
by a small number of individuals possessing limited
genetic variation relative to the larger population from
which they have migrated. 16 If one or more members of
the founder group were carriers of an FA gene mutation,
the descendants would be more likely to contain carriers
of that mutated gene.