What type of disorder is Huntington's disease?

Huntington's disease is classified as a genetic disorder because it is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene on chromosome 4. This disorder follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, meaning that an individual only needs one copy of the mutated gene (inherited from one parent) to develop the disease.

The genetic mutation leads to the production of an abnormal version of the huntingtin protein, which gradually causes the degeneration of neurons in specific areas of the brain. This neurodegeneration results in a range of symptoms, including movement disorders, cognitive decline, and psychiatric issues, all of which stem from the underlying genetic defect.

As Huntington's disease is directly linked to genetic factors, it is important to understand that a person's family history can significantly influence the likelihood of developing the disease.