A homeotic gene
Group of answer choices
represses gene transcription and promotes mRNA translation.
serves as a master control gene that functions during embryonic development by controlling the developmental fate of groups of cells.
determines which end of the egg will become the head and which end will become the tail.
is found only in adult somatic cells.
The correct answer is: A homeotic gene serves as a master control gene that functions during embryonic development by controlling the developmental fate of groups of cells.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand what homeotic genes are and what they do. Homeotic genes are a specific group of genes that regulate the development of an organism by controlling the identity and pattern of body segments, such as the head, thorax, and abdomen. These genes play a crucial role in determining the fate of cells during embryonic development.
By studying the function of homeotic genes in different organisms, scientists have discovered that these genes are indeed master control genes. They coordinate and regulate the expression of other genes involved in development and are responsible for the development of specific body structures in the correct locations.
Option A - represses gene transcription and promotes mRNA translation: This statement is not an accurate description of homeotic genes. Homeotic genes do not primarily function by repressing gene transcription or promoting mRNA translation.
Option B - serves as a master control gene that functions during embryonic development by controlling the developmental fate of groups of cells: This statement accurately describes the role and function of homeotic genes. They are indeed master control genes that control the fate of groups of cells during development.
Option C - determines which end of the egg will become the head and which end will become the tail: This statement is a specific example of how homeotic genes work. They indeed play a crucial role in determining the identity and organization of body parts, including the head and tail.
Option D - is found only in adult somatic cells: This statement is incorrect. Homeotic genes are active during embryonic development and are involved in determining the fate of cells early on, rather than being restricted to adult somatic cells.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B, which accurately describes the function of a homeotic gene.