16p Genetic Syndrome Foundation

What is Deletion

Understanding Variation

Where to fit genes

To provide up to date, practical and digestible information and guidance for families to promote children and individuals with 16p11.2 deletion to reach their full potential while celebrating the joys of individual variation.

Gene Variation

Not That Different After All

If our genetic code is 99.9% the same, then you might wonder— what causes all the differences we see in people? How can small changes in DNA make each person unique? Let’s take a closer look at what makes us different!

What Explains the Variety

Genetics and Environment

There are two main reasons why people are different from each other: our genes and our environment.

How Genes Change

DNA Rewritten

Did you know that the letters of DNA can change randomly? This means that small changes can happen in our genetic code over time.

Genetic Variety

Ways that Genes Change

If our genetic code is 99.9% the same, then you might wonder— what causes all the differences we see in people? How can small changes in DNA make each person unique? Let’s take a closer look at what makes us different!

Variation just is.

Variation is life

Some can feel a sense of isolation when their differences are more visible. And it’s natural to want to belong. Sometimes, the thing that makes us different is what also makes us great. And if we look around we can see that we have more in common with others than differences.