/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 2 Describe the evidence suggesting... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91影视

91影视

Log out

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 7: Problem 2

Describe the evidence suggesting that genetic factors influencing longevity have plasticity.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Genetic plasticity refers to the ability of genes to alter in response to the environment. Evidence supporting this includes scientific studies such as those made on Caenorhabditis Elegans and monozygotic twins, showing variation in lifespan despite genetic similarities. Studies on caloric restriction in animals also reveal longevity being affected by induced genetic changes. These findings suggest that environmental factors can prompt genetic adjustments that influence longevity.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Genetic Plasticity

Genetic plasticity refers to the ability of an organism's genetic material to change in response to external environmental factors. This means that our genes are not set in stone but can adapt to changes in the environment, leading to alterations in physiological traits, including lifespan.
02

Evidence of Genetic Plasticity Influencing Longevity

Several scientific studies suggest that genetic factors can influence an organism's longevity. For example, a study on genetically identical worms, Caenorhabditis elegans, showed that although they share the same genome, their lifespan varied widely depending on environmental conditions. Similarly, studies involving monozygotic twins have revealed considerable differences in lifespan, possibly due to differences in lifestyle and environment that influence genetic expression. Other evidences are derived from studies on caloric restriction in animals, which have been shown to significantly increase lifespan by inducing genetic changes.
03

Conclusion

Given this evidence, it can be concluded that genetic factors influencing longevity have the potential to exhibit plasticity. This capacity to adapt is an intriguing area of research that suggests genes are not final arbiters of lifespan, but environmental factors can elicit changes promoting an extended or reduced lifespan.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91影视!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

List three factors that have placed the US Social Security system in financial crisis.

Explain why the invention of the microscope in the mid-seventeenth century would lead to increased lonoevity

Explain why, after 1970, increases in life expectancy at birth in the United States were due to medical treatments for agerelated diseases, not a continuing decrease in infant mortality rate. Give an example to support your explanation.

Describe how the intelligence of early Homo sapiens allowed parents to give more resources to fewer children. What effect would this have on human longevity?

Briefly explain what is meant by the statement "human mortality rates are facultative."
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Heredity

Read Explanation

Biological Structures

Read Explanation

Ecosystems

Read Explanation

Biology Experiments

Read Explanation

Energy Transfers

Read Explanation

Microbiology

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.