Final answer:
The cystic fibrosis gene affects multiple organ systems in the body, leading to the development of different effects such as the vas-deferens not developing properly in males and the buildup of sticky mucus in the lungs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The explanation for why the product of the cystic fibrosis gene can affect the development of the vas deferens and also cause a buildup of mucus in the lungs is due to the fact that the cystic fibrosis gene affects multiple organ systems in the body.
Firstly, the vas deferens not developing properly in males is a result of the cystic fibrosis gene affecting the reproductive system. This gene mutation can lead to the vas deferens not developing properly early in life, which can result in male infertility.
Secondly, the buildup of sticky mucus in the lungs is caused by the faulty protein produced by the mutant versions of the cystic fibrosis gene. This mucus blocks passages in the mucus-secreting organs such as the lungs, leading to respiratory issues and frequent lung infections.
The cystic fibrosis gene causes a defective CFTR protein affecting multiple organs, leading to both reproductive issues and lung problems due to the buildup of thick mucus.
The two different effects, reproductive issues and lung problems in males with cystic fibrosis, are due to the same gene because the cystic fibrosis gene (CFTR) encodes for a protein that is important in the regulation of salt and water movement across cell membranes. This gene affects multiple organ systems because the protein's malfunction leads to abnormal, thick, and sticky mucus that can block and damage various mucus-secreting organs throughout the body, including both the lungs and the reproductive system. Accordingly, the correct explanation for these two effects caused by the same gene is: 1) The cystic fibrosis gene affects multiple organ systems in the body.