Question

A mammal's red blood cells produce the protein hemoglobin, which carries oxygen through the bloodstream. Its hair follicle cells do not produce hemoglobin. Which statement is true about these differences? A) The red blood cells contain different genes than the hair follicle cells, causing the cells to differentiate B) The red blood cells contain DNA, but the hair follicle cells do not C) A red blood cell and hair follicle cell have the same genes, but they are expressed differently D) The hemoglobin is produced from recombinant DNA, which is only found in red blood cells

Answer 1

C) A red blood cell and hair follicle cell have the same genes, but they are expressed differently

Step-by-step explanation:

All cells of a living organism contain the same genetic sequence i.e. they contain the same set of genes, however, differences in the expression of these genes may occur. This is responsible for the different specific roles or functions played by organs of the body system.

The expression of a gene refers to the process by which a gene is transcribed and translated into a protein molecule, which is responsible for traits in the body. Genes are expressed differently in order for certain cells to function differently and specifically. For example, difference in expression of genes is responsible for the ability of red blood cells to produce hemoglobin and the inability of hair follicle cells to, even if they contain same genes.