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Multiple Choice
What is the biological function of the bicoid gene product in Drosophila embryogenesis?
A
It functions as an enzyme in DNA replication.
B
It is involved in the regulation of cell cycle checkpoints.
C
It encodes a protein that forms the posterior structures of the embryo.
D
It acts as a morphogen that establishes the anterior-posterior axis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the bicoid gene in Drosophila embryogenesis. The bicoid gene is a maternal effect gene, meaning its mRNA is deposited in the egg by the mother before fertilization.
Learn the concept of a morphogen. A morphogen is a substance that forms a concentration gradient and influences cell fate based on its concentration. The bicoid protein acts as a morphogen in Drosophila development.
Recognize the specific function of the bicoid gene product. The bicoid protein establishes the anterior-posterior axis by forming a gradient, with the highest concentration at the anterior end of the embryo.
Eliminate incorrect options based on biological knowledge: The bicoid gene product does not function as an enzyme in DNA replication, regulate cell cycle checkpoints, or encode a protein for posterior structures. These functions are unrelated to the bicoid gene's role.
Conclude that the correct answer is: The bicoid gene product acts as a morphogen that establishes the anterior-posterior axis in Drosophila embryogenesis.