Why do loss-of-function mutations in Hox genes usually r...

Question

Why do loss-of-function mutations in Hox genes usually result in embryo lethality, whereas gain-of-function mutants can be viable? Why are flies homozygous for the recessive loss-of-function alleles and viable?

Accepted Answer

Hey, everyone. Let's take a look at this question together which of the following states the consequence of loss of function mutations in Hawk's genes? Is it answer choice? A uncontrollable cell growth. Answer choice B impairs ion transport across cell membranes. Answer choice C disruption of normal segment identity and patterning or answer choice. D all options are correct. Let's work this problem out together to try to figure out which of the following answer choices is a consequence of loss of function mutations in Hawk's genes. So what do we mean by loss of function mutations? Well, a loss of function mutation is a type of mutation that causes a disruption of the dreams normal function. So the genes that have a loss of function mutation do not operate normally. And in the case of that loss of function mutation in Hawks genes, which we know that the Hawks genes are the genes that are responsible for regulating the development of body segments and animals. So that means that a loss of function mutation or the disruption of the gene's normal function or the Hawks genes, which regulate the development of body segments in animals would mean that the body segments in the animals would not have a normal segment identity or patterning. So a loss of function mutation in the Hawks genes would cause a disruption of normal segment identity and patterning, which is answer choice. C the correct answer since a loss of function mutation in the Hawks genes would disrupt the normal segment identity. And patterning of those animals in the mutation is often lethal because of the importance of the normal segment identity and patterning within the animals. So a consequence of the loss of function mutations in Hawk's genes is answer choice c the disruption of normal segment identity and patterning. I hope you found this video to be helpful. Thank you and goodbye.

Struggling with Genetics?

Why do loss-of-function mutations in Hox genes usually result in embryo lethality, whereas gain-of-function mutants can be viable? Why are flies homozygous for the recessive loss-of-function alleles and viable?

Watch next

Developmental Patterning Genes practice set