Blumenthal and Malcolm N. Blumenthal, focus mostly on the multiple genes in asthma and other disorders. This third academic text is titled “Genetics of Asthma”. The authors, Jacob and Malcolm Blumenthal, believe that “a deeper understanding of these genetic bases and the roles that environmental factors play in the development and manifestations of these conditions will provide better methods of diagnosis and treatment” (Blumenthal). Blumenthal compares asthma to atopy and the skin test reactivity, the test for allergies by scratching the skin with chemicals of allergens. He speaks of the relatedness threw the similarities that they all share in chromosomal sites in atopy and asthma. It was also recorded in his research that even their phenotypes show similarities in different chromosomal areas. Blumenthal states that the explanation behind this is that both asthma and atopy are phylogenetic, meaning that they both need multiple genes to function. Giving an example is a most suitable way to explain this. Imagine three different genes “a”, “b”, and “c”, and they are all involved with the skin test reactivity. Without all 3 genes, it cannot develop. At the same time, to develop asthma, one need genes “c”, “d”, and “e”, while the gene “c” is needed for atopy to develop. One can even go further into depth by saying genes “a” and “b” are needed for the development of the skin and genes “d” and “e” are needed for lung function. Adding …show more content…
That being stated, in my opinion, it is apparent that Koppleman et al, Cookson, and Blumenthal have all useful information that proves that asthma is genetic. In my opinion, the most compelling claim that was given was in the third article when Blumenthal broke down how atopy, skin test reactivity, and asthma could be connected because they are polygenetic. In my opinion, with our current technology, it is not yet possible to identify the possible genes that are connected to asthma. I think that this will need better equipment to truly solve. I would suggest that research and constantly updating on the current standing of asthma is the only way to successfully find the genes. Constant research is the best way to come closer to the answer as technology advances, so no steps backwards are