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How can a single gene defect lead to multiple enzyme deficiencies?

A The enzymes share a cofactor
B The enzymes are modified by the same processing pathway
C The enzymes are transported in similar ways
D The organelle in which the enzymes work is defective
E Any of the above

User Emile
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1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

A single gene defect can lead to multiple enzyme deficiencies when enzymes share a common cofactor, are part of the same processing pathway, are transported similarly, or are located within a defective organelle. The correct answer is E, which encompasses all these possibilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

A single gene defect can lead to multiple enzyme deficiencies through various mechanisms. The correct answer is E, Any of the above. Here’s why:

  • A: If the enzymes share a cofactor, a defect in the gene encoding for a cofactor's synthesis can result in multiple enzymes being deficient due to lack of necessary coenzyme or cofactor.
  • B: If the enzymes are modified by the same processing pathway, a gene defect in that pathway can cause all enzymes processed through that pathway to be deficient.
  • C: If the enzymes are transported in similar ways, a defect in the transport mechanism can affect the function of all those enzymes.
  • D: If the organelle in which the enzymes work is defective because of a gene mutation, it could affect the function of all enzymes within that organelle.

For example, the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) requires the cofactor NADPH. A deficiency in G6PD, could affect the entire metabolic pathway that relies on this enzyme and cofactor, resulting in multiple metabolic malfunctions.

User Rakesh Gondaliya
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8.0k points
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