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Chapter 18: Problem 31

Mutations in the glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) gene can cause a rare anemia when inherited. However, homozygotes with this mutation are less prone to malaria infection, a disease that historically was the most widespread deadly disease among humans. Predict how this mutation would affect the fitness of individuals living in countries where malaria is endemic.

Short Answer

Expert verified
In malaria-endemic areas, individuals with the G6PD mutation may have higher fitness due to malaria resistance despite anemia.

Step by step solution

01

- Understand the Concept of Fitness

Fitness in an evolutionary context refers to an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. Genetic traits affecting fitness are often passed to subsequent generations.
02

- Analyze the Mutation鈥檚 Direct Impact

Mutations in the G6PD gene can cause anemia, which is typically detrimental to the individual's health and overall fitness. This means that individuals with the mutation might have decreased fitness due to health problems caused by anemia.
03

- Assess the Mutation鈥檚 Effect Regarding Malaria

Homozygotes for the G6PD mutation are less prone to malaria. This genetic advantage can increase their survivability in malaria-endemic regions, potentially offsetting the negative impacts of anemia.
04

- Compare Fitness in Malaria-Endemic vs. Non-Endemic Regions

In malaria-endemic countries, the protective effect against malaria could lead to higher fitness for homozygous individuals despite the anemia. Conversely, in non-endemic areas, the anemia would decrease fitness due to the lack of selective pressure from malaria.
05

- Make the Final Prediction

Considering both anemia and malaria resistance, the net effect of the G6PD mutation on fitness will be context-dependent. In regions where malaria is a significant threat, the mutation could improve fitness by providing a crucial survival advantage.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

genetic mutations
Genetic mutations are changes in the DNA sequence of an organism. These changes can happen due to errors during DNA replication or exposure to harmful substances.
Mutations in specific genes can impact the functioning of proteins, leading to various effects on the organism.
Mutations can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful depending on their impact on an organism's survival and reproduction.
evolutionary fitness
Evolutionary fitness refers to an organism's ability to survive and reproduce successfully in its environment.
Traits that enhance survival and reproductive success tend to be passed on to future generations.
Fitness is measured by the contribution of an individual鈥檚 genes to the next generation's gene pool.
Mutations that increase fitness in one context might decrease it in another.
malaria resistance
Malaria resistance is the reduced susceptibility to malaria infection, often due to genetic factors.
Homozygotes for the G6PD mutation are less likely to contract malaria, giving them a survival advantage in regions where malaria is prevalent.
This resistance can significantly improve the fitness of individuals living in malaria-endemic areas.
anemia
Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness.
G6PD mutations can cause a rare form of anemia, impacting overall health and reducing an individual's fitness.
The effects of anemia can range from mild to severe, and it often requires medical management.
natural selection
Natural selection is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more successfully.
In regions with high malaria incidence, natural selection may favor individuals with the G6PD mutation due to their malaria resistance.
Conversely, in areas without malaria, the negative effects of anemia would likely reduce the fitness of individuals with this mutation.

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