Question

G6PD deficiency is an inherited condition in which the body doesn't have enough of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, or G6PD, which helps red blood cells (RBCs) function normally. G6PD deficiency is most common in African-American males. Many females are carriers. It is known that Africa and the Mediterranean basin are high-risk areas for the infectious disease malaria. Researchers have found evidence that the parasite that causes malaria does not survive well in G6PD-deficient cells.How can you explain this?

Natural selection favors G6PD deficiency as compared to malaria.

Genetic drift is responsible for greater occurrence of G6PD deficiency in these regions.

Somatic mutations lead to G6PD deficiency in malaria-inflicted regions.

Answer 1

Natural selection favors G6PD Deficiency as compared to malaria. 

Answer 2

Natural selection favors G6PD deficiency as compared to malaria

Individuals in which the G6PD deficiency is common live in areas where malaria is an epidemic problem. Natural selection, a process which selects traits favorable traits out of a species' gene pool, will favor the individuals with G6PD deficiency to survive as they will not be affected by malaria. Their immunity to malaria will help these individuals pass on their genes better, meaning the gene for G6PD will become common, as is the case.