Question

A genetic disease has led to damaged chromatin that a scientist discovered in G1 of interphase. The genetic disease has resulted in the malformation of certain proteins. Given your understanding of the structure of chromatin, please discuss the likely damage this disease may cause.

a) The damaged chromatin may lead to abnormalities in DNA replication.
b) The disease is unlikely to affect protein structure as proteins are not associated with chromatin.
c) The damaged chromatin will lead to enhanced protein synthesis.
d) The genetic disease will have no impact on chromatin or protein structure.

Answer 1

The damaged chromatin in G1 of interphase resulting from the genetic disease can cause abnormalities in DNA replication and the production of non-functional proteins. The uncorrected DNA damage can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The damaged chromatin resulting from the genetic disease discovered in G1 of interphase will likely cause abnormalities in DNA replication. The malformation of certain proteins can disrupt the regular helical structure of the DNA, introducing chemical modifications or bulky adducts. These modifications can interfere with DNA replication, leading to errors and the production of non-functional proteins. The uncorrected DNA damage can be passed on to daughter cells, resulting in a decrease in the effectiveness of control and repair mechanisms, and potentially leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.