Population genetics · USMLE Step 1

Inbreeding in a population is most likely to increase the frequency of which of the following?

  1. A higher proportion of heterozygous carriers
  2. Autosomal recessive disorders
  3. A greater number of de novo germline mutations
  4. X-linked dominant disorders in the population
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Correct answer: Autosomal recessive disorders

Inbreeding increases homozygosity, including for recessive alleles, leading to increased expression of autosomal recessive disorders. It decreases heterozygosity and does not directly affect mutation rates or X-linked dominant conditions.

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