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Multiple Choice
Why do mitochondrial genes fail to display Mendelian inheritance patterns?
A
Because they are located on the Y chromosome
B
Because they are inherited exclusively from the mother
C
Because they are influenced by environmental factors
D
Because they undergo recombination during meiosis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of Mendelian inheritance: Mendelian inheritance refers to the patterns of inheritance that are characteristic of organisms that reproduce sexually, where genes are inherited from both parents according to specific ratios.
Recognize the unique inheritance pattern of mitochondrial genes: Mitochondrial genes are inherited exclusively from the mother, which is different from the typical Mendelian inheritance where genes are inherited from both parents.
Explore the location of mitochondrial genes: Mitochondrial genes are located in the mitochondria, not on chromosomes like nuclear genes. This is why they do not follow the Mendelian inheritance patterns associated with nuclear genes.
Consider the role of recombination: Mitochondrial genes do not undergo recombination during meiosis, which is another reason they do not follow Mendelian inheritance patterns. Recombination typically occurs with nuclear genes during meiosis.
Clarify the influence of environmental factors: While environmental factors can affect gene expression, they do not change the inheritance pattern of mitochondrial genes, which are maternally inherited.