Can albinism be passed of to offspring?

Albinism is an autosomal recessive genetic condition, which means that both copies of the gene encoding for tyrosinase or other proteins relevant for melanin production must carry the mutation to cause albinism. Albinism is inherited from both parents, although the parents may not have albinism themselves if they carry one mutant copy of the gene.

Here's how albinism is passed on to offspring:

1. Parents as Carriers: If both parents are carriers of albinism (i.e., they have one mutant copy of the gene), there is a 25% chance that their offspring will have oculocutaneous albinism (OCA), the most common form of albinism.

2. Parents with OCA: If both parents have albinism, there is a 100% chance that their offspring will inherit the condition and have albinism.

3. Parents: Carrier of Albinism and Non-Carrier: If only one parent is a carrier of albinism and the other parent does not carry any mutations, none of their children will have albinism; instead, they will be carriers of the condition like the parent who carries the mutant gene.

The inheritance of albinism can be confusing and complex due to the existence of different types of albinism and the involvement of multiple genes. If you or your partner have albinism or if you are concerned about the potential for albinism in your family, it's important to seek genetic counseling for information, risk assessment, and guidance.