Skip to main content
Pearson+ LogoPearson+ Logo
Ch. 3 - Cell Division and Chromosome Heredity
Sanders - Genetic Analysis: An Integrated Approach 3rd Edition
Sanders3rd EditionGenetic Analysis: An Integrated ApproachISBN: 9780135564172Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 3, Problem 31

The cell cycle operates in the same way in all eukaryotes, from single-celled yeast to humans, and all share numerous genes whose functions are essential for the normal progression of the cycle. Discuss why you think this is the case.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of the cell cycle: The cell cycle is a series of events that cells go through to grow and divide. It consists of phases such as G1 (growth), S (DNA synthesis), G2 (preparation for mitosis), and M (mitosis). These phases are regulated by specific genes and proteins.
Recognize the evolutionary conservation of eukaryotic cells: Eukaryotic cells share a common ancestor, and many fundamental processes, such as the cell cycle, have been conserved through evolution. This conservation ensures that essential functions like growth and division are maintained across diverse species.
Identify the role of conserved genes: Genes involved in the cell cycle, such as cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), are highly conserved across eukaryotes. These genes regulate the progression of the cell cycle and ensure its proper functioning, which is critical for survival and reproduction.
Consider the importance of universal mechanisms: The cell cycle is a universal mechanism that supports cellular life. Its conservation allows researchers to study simpler organisms, like yeast, to understand the cell cycle in more complex organisms, such as humans. This shared mechanism highlights the efficiency and reliability of evolutionary conservation.
Reflect on the implications for research and medicine: The conservation of cell cycle genes across eukaryotes enables scientists to use model organisms to study diseases like cancer, which involve disruptions in the cell cycle. Understanding these conserved pathways can lead to advancements in treatments and therapies.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
2m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Conservation of Genetic Mechanisms

The cell cycle is a fundamental process that has been conserved throughout evolution, meaning that many genes and mechanisms involved in this process are similar across diverse eukaryotic organisms. This conservation suggests that these genes perform essential functions that are critical for cell division and organismal development, making them vital for survival.
Recommended video:
Guided course
11:35
History of Genetics

Eukaryotic Cell Cycle Phases

The eukaryotic cell cycle consists of distinct phases: G1 (growth), S (DNA synthesis), G2 (preparation for mitosis), and M (mitosis). Each phase is tightly regulated by specific proteins and checkpoints to ensure proper cell division. The similarities in these phases across eukaryotes highlight the importance of these processes in maintaining cellular integrity and function.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:29
Bacteriophage Life Cycle

Role of Cell Cycle Regulators

Cell cycle regulators, such as cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), play crucial roles in controlling the progression through the cell cycle. These proteins ensure that each phase of the cycle is completed accurately before the next begins. The presence of similar regulatory mechanisms in all eukaryotes underscores the evolutionary importance of precise cell cycle control for growth and development.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:29
Bacteriophage Life Cycle
Related Practice
Textbook Question

Drosophila has a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 8, which includes one pair of sex chromosomes (XX in females and XY in males) and three pairs of autosomes. Consider a Drosophila male that has a copy of the A₁ allele on its X chromosome (the Y chromosome is the homolog) and is heterozygous for alleles B₁ and B₂, C₁ and C₂, and D₁ and D₂ of genes that are each on a different autosomal pair. In the diagrams requested below, indicate the alleles carried on each chromosome and sister chromatid. Assume that no crossover occurs between homologous chromosomes.


Diagram any correct alignment of chromosomes at metaphase I of meiosis.

1
views
Textbook Question

Drosophila has a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 8, which includes one pair of sex chromosomes (XX in females and XY in males) and three pairs of autosomes. Consider a Drosophila male that has a copy of the A₁ allele on its X chromosome (the Y chromosome is the homolog) and is heterozygous for alleles B₁ and B₂, C₁ and C₂, and D₁ and D₂ of genes that are each on a different autosomal pair. In the diagrams requested below, indicate the alleles carried on each chromosome and sister chromatid. Assume that no crossover occurs between homologous chromosomes.

For the metaphase I alignment shown in (c), what gamete genotypes are produced at the end of meiosis?

1
views
Textbook Question

Drosophila has a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 8, which includes one pair of sex chromosomes (XX in females and XY in males) and three pairs of autosomes. Consider a Drosophila male that has a copy of the A₁ allele on its X chromosome (the Y chromosome is the homolog) and is heterozygous for alleles B₁ and B₂, C₁ and C₂, and D₁ and D₂ of genes that are each on a different autosomal pair. In the diagrams requested below, indicate the alleles carried on each chromosome and sister chromatid. Assume that no crossover occurs between homologous chromosomes.

How many different metaphase I chromosome alignments are possible in this male? How many genetically different gametes can this male produce? Explain your reasoning for each answer.

1
views
Textbook Question

From a piece of blank paper, cut out three sets of four cigar-shaped structures (a total of 12 structures). These will represent chromatids. Be sure each member of a set of four chromatids has the same length and girth. In set one, label two chromatids 'A' and two chromatids 'a.' Cut each of these chromatids about halfway across near their midpoint and slide the two 'A' chromatids together at the cuts to form a single set of attached sister chromatids. Do the same for the 'a' chromatids. In the second set of four chromatids, label two 'B' and two 'b.' Cut and slide these together as you did for the first set, joining the 'B' chromatids together and the 'b' chromatids together. Repeat this process for the third set of chromatids, labeling them as 'D' and 'd.' You now have models for three pairs of homologous chromosomes, for a total of six chromosomes. Give the genotype of the cell with six chromosomes.

1
views
Textbook Question

From a piece of blank paper, cut out three sets of four cigar-shaped structures (a total of 12 structures). These will represent chromatids. Be sure each member of a set of four chromatids has the same length and girth. In set one, label two chromatids 'A' and two chromatids 'a.' Cut each of these chromatids about halfway across near their midpoint and slide the two 'A' chromatids together at the cuts to form a single set of attached sister chromatids. Do the same for the 'a' chromatids. In the second set of four chromatids, label two 'B' and two 'b.' Cut and slide these together as you did for the first set, joining the 'B' chromatids together and the 'b' chromatids together. Repeat this process for the third set of chromatids, labeling them as 'D' and 'd.' You now have models for three pairs of homologous chromosomes, for a total of six chromosomes. Align the chromosomes as they might appear at metaphase of mitosis.

1
views
Textbook Question

From a piece of blank paper, cut out three sets of four cigar-shaped structures (a total of 12 structures). These will represent chromatids. Be sure each member of a set of four chromatids has the same length and girth. In set one, label two chromatids 'A' and two chromatids 'a.' Cut each of these chromatids about halfway across near their midpoint and slide the two 'A' chromatids together at the cuts to form a single set of attached sister chromatids. Do the same for the 'a' chromatids. In the second set of four chromatids, label two 'B' and two 'b.' Cut and slide these together as you did for the first set, joining the 'B' chromatids together and the 'b' chromatids together. Repeat this process for the third set of chromatids, labeling them as 'D' and 'd.' You now have models for three pairs of homologous chromosomes, for a total of six chromosomes. Are there any alternative alignments of the chromosomes for this cell-division stage? Explain.

1
views