Question

Gene duplication: result in genes that are paralogs, leads to functional redundancy, can result in one of the copies gaining a new function. What is the result of gene duplication?

1) result in genes that are paralogs
2) leads to functional redundancy
3) can result in one of the copies gaining a new function
4) all of the above

Answer 1

Gene duplication leads to the creation of paralogs, functional redundancy, and potentially to one of the gene copies gaining a new function. Therefore, the correct answer is '4) all of the above.'

Step-by-step explanation:

The result of gene duplication can be multifaceted. It first leads to the creation of genes that are known as paralogs, which means they are related by duplication within a genome and can evolve new functions over time.

Functional redundancy is another outcome, as duplicated genes often initially perform the same function. This redundancy can be beneficial to an organism because it provides a backup system in case one gene gets mutated or is otherwise rendered nonfunctional.

Furthermore, gene duplication can lead to neofunctionalization, where one of the gene copies accumulates mutations that allow it to take on a new and distinct function, contributing to evolutionary diversity and the development of novel biological functions.

Therefore, the result of gene duplication includes:

1. Result in genes that are paralogs
2. Leads to functional redundancy
3. Can result in one of the copies gaining a new function

As such, the correct answer is

4) all of the above.