How is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy caused?

Our bodies are created based on essential genetic instructions from our DNA which is the genetic basis for nearly all life on the planet. Duchenne is caused by faults in the gene found on the X chromosome. These faults are called genetic mutations.

The dystrophin gene is responsible for producing a protein called dystrophin in muscle cells that appears to act as an anchor to help keep the cell walls intact. Due to its large size it is particularly prone to mutations. It is the break up and death of muscle cells through a lack of, or poor functional dystrophin that causes the severe muscle wasting in DMD. This leads to premature paralysis followed by cardiac and/or respiratory failure which ultimately causes very premature death.

For a thorough explanation about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and research updates, please visit any of the following sites:

http://www.Duchenneuk.org

http://www.parentprojectmd.org