Question

The incidence of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in North America is about 1/3,000 males. On the basis for this figure, what is the gene frequency of this X-linked recessive mutation?

A. 1/3,000
B. 2/3,000
C. (1/3,000)²
D. 1/6,000
E. 1/9,000

Answer 1

The gene frequency of the X-linked recessive mutation causing Duchenne muscular dystrophy is approximately 1/54, which is not provided in the options.

Step-by-step explanation:

X-linked recessive disorders, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), primarily affect males. The gene frequency of an X-linked recessive mutation can be calculated using the incidence rate of the disorder in males. In this case, the incidence is 1/3,000 males. Since the mutation is recessive, the gene frequency would be equal to the square root of the incidence rate, which is approximately 1/54. Hence, the correct answer is not provided in the options.