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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true of a heteroplasmic gene?
A
It is a gene that follows Mendelian inheritance patterns.
B
It is a gene that is present in multiple copies within the nucleus.
C
It is a gene that is inherited exclusively from the father.
D
It is a gene that exhibits different alleles within the mitochondria of a single cell.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of heteroplasmy: Heteroplasmy refers to the presence of more than one type of mitochondrial DNA within a single cell. This means that different alleles of a gene can exist within the mitochondria.
Recognize that mitochondrial genes do not follow Mendelian inheritance patterns: Unlike nuclear genes, mitochondrial genes are inherited maternally, meaning they are passed down from the mother to offspring.
Identify the location of heteroplasmic genes: These genes are found within the mitochondria, not the nucleus, and can exhibit variation in alleles within a single cell.
Clarify the inheritance pattern: Mitochondrial genes are inherited exclusively from the mother, not the father, which is a key distinction from nuclear genes.
Conclude that the correct statement about a heteroplasmic gene is that it exhibits different alleles within the mitochondria of a single cell, reflecting the unique nature of mitochondrial inheritance and genetic variation.