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​Pedigree

updated: October 31, 2024

Definition

A pedigree, as related to genetics, is a chart that diagrams the inheritance of a trait or health condition through generations of a family. The pedigree particularly shows the relationships among family members and, when the information is available, indicates which individuals have a trait(s) of interest.

 Pedigree


Narration

Pedigree. A pedigree is a map that depicts the different members of a family and their connections. It is a graph, and it makes assessing who is connected and their relationships — such as parent, sibling, cousin — apparent by visual inspection. A pedigree can also help determine how a trait or condition might be passed down through the generations and what might accompany it.

Charles Venditti
Charles P. Venditti, M.D., Ph.D.

Chief and Senior Investigator

Metabolic Medicine Branch