Which inheritance pattern is characterized by traits that are only expressed in males and passed through male offspring?

Which inheritance pattern is characterized by traits that are only expressed in males and passed through male offspring?

• A. X-linked Recessive
• B. Y-linked
• C. Autosomal Dominant
• D. X-linked Dominant

Answer: (B)

The inheritance pattern characterized by traits that are only expressed in males and passed through male offspring is Y-linked inheritance. Y-linked traits are associated with genes located on the Y chromosome, which is only present in males. Because females do not possess a Y chromosome, they cannot inherit or express Y-linked traits. When a male carries a Y-linked trait, he can pass it directly to his male offspring, who will also express the trait. This is distinct from X-linked inheritance patterns, where traits can be passed to both male and female offspring but may only be expressed in males if they are recessive. Autosomal dominant and recessive characteristics can be passed through both sexes but do not have the unique male-only expression linked to the Y chromosome. Thus, Y-linked inheritance correctly describes the scenario of traits expressed solely in males and transmitted through male lineage.

The inheritance pattern characterized by traits that are only expressed in males and passed through male offspring is Y-linked inheritance. Y-linked traits are associated with genes located on the Y chromosome, which is only present in males. Because females do not possess a Y chromosome, they cannot inherit or express Y-linked traits.

When a male carries a Y-linked trait, he can pass it directly to his male offspring, who will also express the trait. This is distinct from X-linked inheritance patterns, where traits can be passed to both male and female offspring but may only be expressed in males if they are recessive. Autosomal dominant and recessive characteristics can be passed through both sexes but do not have the unique male-only expression linked to the Y chromosome. Thus, Y-linked inheritance correctly describes the scenario of traits expressed solely in males and transmitted through male lineage.