Family studies have shown that OCD has a significant genetic component. Which of the following best describes the inheritance pattern most commonly associated with OCD?
Group of answer choices
- Autosomal dominant with complete penetrance
- X-linked recessive
- Polygenic with variable expressivity
- Mitochondrial inheritance
The correct answer is: Polygenic with variable expressivity
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Explanation:
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) does not follow a simple Mendelian inheritance pattern (e.g., autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked). Instead, research suggests that OCD is:
- Polygenic: Multiple genes contribute to the risk of developing OCD.
- Variable expressivity: Even among individuals with genetic susceptibility, symptoms can vary widely in severity and presentation.
- Influenced by environmental factors: Stress, trauma, and infections may interact with genetic predisposition.
Family and twin studies support a heritable component, but no single gene or simple inheritance pattern explains OCD. Thus, polygenic inheritance with variable expressivity best describes its genetic basis.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Autosomal dominant with complete penetrance would mean a single gene mutation always causes OCD, which is not the case.
- X-linked recessive would show a specific gender-linked pattern, which is not observed in OCD.
- Mitochondrial inheritance would involve maternal transmission only, which is not a recognized pattern for OCD.
