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Multiple Choice
How is the expression of surface antigens on red blood cells determined?
A
By the type of diet consumed during early childhood
B
By exposure to different pathogens during development
C
By the presence of certain hormones in the bloodstream
D
By the specific genes inherited from an individual's parents
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that surface antigens on red blood cells are proteins or carbohydrates present on the cell membrane that play a role in immune recognition.
Recognize that these antigens are determined genetically, meaning they are encoded by specific genes inherited from an individual's parents.
Learn that the ABO blood group system is an example of surface antigens determined by genes. The ABO gene on chromosome 9 encodes enzymes that modify the carbohydrate structures on the red blood cell surface.
Explore how inheritance works: individuals inherit one allele from each parent, which determines their blood type (e.g., A, B, AB, or O). This is an example of codominance in genetics.
Understand that environmental factors like diet, pathogens, or hormones do not influence the genetic determination of surface antigens, as these traits are fixed by the inherited genetic code.