Health Medical Information

steve,
Obviously they can, otherwise there would not be any instances of DMD. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by an X-linked gene (that is, the gene is on the X chromosome; girls have two of these and boys only one). This means that only boys are affected but that their mothers may be carriers. Actually in almost half of all affected boys nowadays it turns out that the faulty gene has arisen by a change in the gene or ‘mutation’ in the boy himself and no other member of the family carries it. But this may be difficult to prove and can be decided only after careful and expert assessment of the family. Exon skipping is a gene therapy approach that is currently in clinical trial for DMD and involves short strands of synthetic DNA known as an ‘antisense oligonucleotide’ which can be considered as sort of ‘molecular patches’. The treatment can restore production of the protein dystrophin (which is missing in boys with DMD) and works by masking the faulty part of the dystrophin gene, allowing a shortened but functional dystrophin protein to be produced. It is thought that this method could potentially transform the symptoms of the severe Duchenne form of muscular dystrophy to those akin to the much milder so-called ‘Becker’ muscular dystrophy. You might care to discuss this with your doctor/geneticist.

ALL ANSWERS SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY RESEARCHED, IN ANY FORUM AND ESPECIALLY IN THIS ONE. – MANY ANSWERS ARE FLAWED.

It is extremely important to obtain an accurate diagnosis before trying to find a cure. Many diseases and conditions share common symptoms.

The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Hope this helps
matador 89