Genes are sections of DNA that carry instructions used by the body to develop and function. Many genes provide instructions for making proteins, which perform a wide range of tasks in our cells. Changes in a gene can sometimes affect how a protein works and contribute to a health condition.

Explore individual genes to learn about their normal roles and the conditions associated with particular genetic changes. An association with a condition does not mean that every change in that gene causes illness; interpreting a genetic test result requires the specific change, family history and clinical context.