Fragile X Syndrome is known to have more severe symptoms in which gender?

Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic condition that results from a mutation in the FMR1 gene and is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability. The syndrome typically exhibits more pronounced symptoms in males due to the way the condition is inherited and its effects on the X chromosome.

Males have one X chromosome (XY), and if the X chromosome they inherit carries the mutation, they do not have a second X chromosome that could potentially mitigate the effects of the mutation. Consequently, they often experience the full range of symptoms, which can include developmental delays, phonological and language issues, and behavioral challenges.

Females, on the other hand, have two X chromosomes (XX). If one of their X chromosomes carries the mutation, the other X chromosome may provide some level of compensation due to the presence of a normal FMR1 gene. As a result, females may exhibit milder symptoms, or they may have partially affected cognitive and behavioral profiles, leading to variability in severity among females.

This difference in genetic composition explains why males typically present with more severe symptoms when compared to females affected by Fragile X Syndrome.