Molecular genetic pathology is the laboratory study of genetic samples of cells, tissues, body fluids, and organs, associated with heredity. A genetic pathologist identifies the causes, processes, and risks of inherited diseases through microscopic study. Laboratory test results of genetic material help to diagnose, confirm, and monitor inherited diseases. The genetic pathologist can provide counseling to patients and their families, with information about their condition and the risk of a genetic disorder in the family.

Laboratory study of tissue and fluid samples can help to 1) diagnose inherited genetic abnormalities and tumor malignancies, 2) monitor genetic changes of patients who have undergone bone marrow transplants, 3) diagnose and monitor viral, fungal, and bacterial infections.

Mississippi’s population is 2,921,088, and its capital is Jackson. Mississippi is known as the birthplace of blues music, and there are many museums and historical sites dedicated to the legends who created this original American art form. In Crystal Springs, see the Robert Johnson Heritage & Blues Museum in Crystal Springs, the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, or the original home sites of Muddy Waters, W.C Handy, or Mississippi John Hurt. Edwards is home to the world’s only cactus plantation. Take a Biloxi Shrimp Tour on the Mississippi river, tour the Historic Victorian District in Brookhaven, or see the Mississippi Petrified Forest in Flora. In Jackson, popular sites include the planetarium, the Beaux Arts style architecture of the State Capitol Building, or the Jackson Zoological Park.

According to 2005 Census estimates, Mississippi has a population of 2,921,088. Of this population, 741,068 are under the age of 18 and 356,908 are at or above the age of 65.