Question

Drosophila fruit flies are homeotic genes that control differentiation of tissues and organs in embryos. Which of the following is true of homeotic genes?

a) They direct the process of cell division within the embryo.
b) They direct proteins to bind to RNA, increasing gene expression at certain times.
c) They were prominent in prokaryotes because they are very conserved when passed down to eukaryotes.
d) They promote cell differentiation of liver cells.

Answer 1

Homeotic genes, especially Hox genes, encode transcription factors that dictate tissue and organ development. They are essential for correct cell differentiation in developing embryos.

Step-by-step explanation:

Homeotic genes, such as those within the Homeobox (Hox) gene family, are crucial in the developmental process of organisms as they encode transcription factors that control the expression of other genes, dictating the organization of tissues and organs in the developing embryo. This control ensures that body parts develop in the correct positions and times during the embryonic stage. Consequently, homeotic genes like Hox genes are significant contributors to the overall body plan development of animals.

Which of the following is true of homeotic genes? The correct answer is they promote cell differentiation within various tissues, including the formation of liver cells. Homeotic genes are not primarily directed at cell division, RNA binding, or historically significant in prokaryotes but emerged as a key component in the development of more complex eukaryotic organisms.