beta-thalassemia-? Selected pseudogenes

The synthesis of delta-globin is directed by a gene whose inherent characteristics permit only limited expression, a gene resembling in some respects that of beta +-thalassemia. The existence of delta O-thalassemia and the presence of delta-globin genes in this condition recall the molecular findings in most types of beta O-thalassemia. The delta-globin and beta +-thalassemia genes may be evolving pseudogenes. Those for delta O and beta O-thalassemia are, in functional sense, already pseudogenes in that they closely resemble functional genes but lack a discernible protein product. In time they should accumulate sufficient changes in their nucleotide sequences which will make them more analagous to what we now recognize as pseudogenes. the selective pressure of Falciparum malaria infection may help maintain the beta-thalassemia "pseudogene" in many populations.