Question

Which Ds element represents an extreme deleted form; how short is this version of Ds?

1) Ds6, 1000-1200 bp
2) Ds2d1, 2000 bp
3) Ds1, 300-500 bp
4) Ds9, 2500 bp

Answer 1

The extreme deleted form of the Ds element is represented by option 3) Ds1, which measures 300-500 base pairs, making it the shortest version provided in the options.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Ds element, which is a type of transposon, represents a segment of DNA that can move around to different positions within the genome of a single cell. In this context, the Ds element being referred to is one that is an 'extreme deleted form' meaning it is a version of the Ds element which has substantial deletions compared to the full-length element. Among the options provided, option 3) Ds1, 300-500 bp, is the correct answer as it represents the shortest version, given that Ds elements can vary in size but a typical member of the IS element family, which is similar in function, ranges from about 750 to 1425 bp in length. Therefore, a Ds element that is 300-500 bp in length would be considered an extreme deleted form.