Extensions of Mendelism

Extensions of Mendelism are the key principles in modern genetics that explain the inheritance of genetic characteristics beyond what was initially proposed by the Austrian monk, Gregor Mendel. These extensions explain the role of genes in the environment and inheritance of traits; the role of genes in the development of an organism; the role of the environment in how genes are expressed; the role of epigenetics in gene expression; and the role of genes in disease. They are fundamental to understanding the complexity of genes in the development of organisms, and in turn, to understanding disease and improving human health. By applying the principles of extensions of Mendelism to genetic testing, it increases the accuracy of diagnoses, and can lead to more effective treatments. Furthermore, these principles aid in the development of genetically modified plants and animals to improve agricultural efficiency and reduce the risk of disease.