Question

All the cells of one organism share the genome. However, during development, some cells develop into skin cells while others develop into muscle cells. How can the same genetic instructions result in two different cell types in the same organism? Thoroughly explain your answer.

a) Genetic mutations during development
b) Differential gene expression
c) Random cellular processes
d) Environmental factors

Answer 1

During development, the same genetic instructions in an organism can result in different cell types through differential gene expression, where different sets of genes are turned on or off in different cells. This process is regulated by chemical signals from the environment.

Step-by-step explanation:

All cells in an organism possess the same genome, but they develop into different cell types due to differential gene expression. This means that different sets of genes are turned on or off in different cells, leading to the production of different gene products. For example, skin cells express genes related to skin structure and function, while muscle cells express genes related to muscle contraction. This process is regulated by location-specific chemical signals from the embryonic environment.