Question

Albinism, a genetic disorder in which pigment is absent from the skin, is transmitted by a ______________ allele.

a.dominant
b.pedigreed
c.polygenic
d.recessive

Answer 1

Answer: d.recessive.

Step-by-step explanation:

• Albinism is caused when there is a mutation in the gene known as tyrosinase.
• When both the alleles of tyrosinase are normal the person is able to make enough pigment, however, due to the defect in the gene tyrosinase, the amount of product decreases in case of heterozygotes.
• However, even in heterozygotes, the product is not so less that it would cause albinism, it is only caused when both the alleles are defective (homozygous condition).
• Therefore, albinism is a recessive trait.