The last time you saw the sisters pictured above, you considered how different protein molecules in their cells could lead to different traits. Now, you know that genes provide instructions for proteins that lead to traits. How could these sisters have ended up with different genes, leading to their different proteins and traits? Explain your ideas below.
There are several ways in which the sisters could have ended up with different genes, resulting in different proteins and traits. One possible explanation is genetic variation caused by mutations. Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to differences in the genes carried by individuals. These mutations can occur randomly or be caused by environmental factors.
Another possibility is genetic recombination during the process of sexual reproduction. During meiosis, the genetic material from each parent is shuffled and recombined, leading to offspring with a unique combination of genes. This process can result in siblings inheriting different combinations of genes from their parents, leading to variations in their traits.
Additionally, gene expression can be influenced by epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and histone modification. These factors can affect how genes are turned on or off, leading to differences in the proteins produced by cells even if the genes themselves are the same.
Overall, the sisters could have ended up with different genes, proteins, and traits through a combination of genetic variation, genetic recombination, and epigenetic factors. These factors contribute to the diversity and uniqueness of individuals within a population.