Jump to content

Could you survive with four copies of the X chromosome? Would your life be any different?

Featured Replies

It is rare but possible to have up to 4 copies of X chromosome in the genetic make up of an individual.

This is called Multiple X syndrome in female (such female are usually called meta or super females) and Klinefelter syndrome in male.

In both circumstances, individual can live since the condition is not lethal. However, males of such condition are often sterile and produce low amount of testosterone while females are often tall and fertile.

  • 2 months later...

People can survive with multiple copies of the X chromosome, although they usually have delayed cognitive development and reproductive abnormalities, among other symptoms. The larger the number of extra copies of the chromosome there are, the more severe the symptoms are. There have been cases of males born with as many as five copies of the X chromosome. In this case, their karyotype would be 50, XXXXXY.

Edited by John S

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.

Configure browser push notifications

Chrome (Android)
  1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
  2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
  3. Adjust your preference.
Chrome (Desktop)
  1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
  2. Select Site settings.
  3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.