What is pedigree

Pedigree analysis is the process by which heritability of certain characteristic features in families can be determined. Thus, pedigree analysis is the practice of analysing inheritance pattern of traits in human beings. It is represented in a family tree over generations.

In human genetics, pedigree study provides a strong tool, which is utilized to trace the inheritance of a specific, abnormality or disease. Also, alterations, known as mutations, that are inherited can be identified. It is also used to know the possibility of passing of a heritable disease from parents to offsprings and also used for genetic counselling to avoid diseases in children.