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Chapter 26: Problem 14

Describe the molecular features of the homeobox and homeodomain. Explain how these features are important in the function of homeotic genes.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The homeobox is a DNA sequence found in genes that participate in the regulation of development (morphogenesis). It codes for a portion of a protein known as the homeodomain. The homeodomain acts as a transcription factor that regulates gene transcription. Consequently, homeotic genes, which contain homeobox sequences and subsequently homeodomains in their protein products, play a fundamental role in defining body structure during an organism's development.

Step by step solution

01

Define Homeobox

The homeobox is a DNA sequence, about 180 base pairs long, within genes that are involved in regulating patterns of anatomical development (morphogenesis) in animals, fungi and plants. This homeobox sequence codes for a part of the protein known as the homeodomain.
02

Define Homeodomain

The homeodomain is a protein domain 鈥� it is a part of the protein that can exist independently of the rest of the protein chain. Once the portion of the gene with the homeobox sequence is transcribed and translated, it creates a protein fragment known as the homeodomain, which is roughly 60 amino acids long.
03

Explain the importance of the Homeobox and Homeodomain in Homeotic Genes

Homeotic genes contain a homeobox, and as a result, also a homeodomain in its protein product. The homeodomain acts as a transcription factor 鈥� it binds to specific DNA sequences in gene promoters and help regulate the transcription of these target genes. Because of their role in transcription regulation, homeotic genes (with their homeobox/homeodomain) are crucial in determining body structure during development. Mutations in homeotic genes often result in dramatic changes in anatomy.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The MyoD gene in mammals plays a role in skeletal muscle-cell differentiation, whereas the Hox genes are homeotic genes that play a role in the differentiation of particular regions of the body. Explain how the functions of these genes are similar and different.

If a mutation in a homeotic gene produced the following phenotypes, would you expect it to be a loss-of-function or a gain-offunction mutation? Explain your answer. A. An abdominal segment has antennae attached to it. B. The most anterior abdominal segment resembles the most posterior thoracic segment. C. The most anterior thoracic segment resembles the most posterior abdominal segment.

What is a meristem? Explain the role of meristems in plant development.

Gradients of morphogens can be preestablished in the oocyte. Also, later in development, morphogens can be secreted from cells. How are these two processes similar and different?

Which of the following statement(s) is/are true with regard to positional information in Drosophila? A. Morphogens are a type of molecule that conveys positional information. B. Morphogenetic gradients are established only in the oocyte, prior to fertilization. C. Cell adhesion molecules also provide a way for a cell to obtain positional information.
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