Question

Evolutionary change is more closely associated with changes in gene expression than the evolution of new protein with completely new functions. Describe how homeotic mutations illustrate this point and how homeotic mutations cause altered phenotypes.

Answer 1

Homeotic mutation are the specific type of mutation responsible for causing displaced body parts. This mutation is not occur by formation of new protein and having new function. This mutation occur because change in expression of genes that expressed formation of various body parts. In this mutation, the involved genes are "homeotic genes " that regulate regulate development of different body parts. When these genes are get mutated either overactive or suppressed ,they result in the structure of body parts develop in a Wrong place. These genes are mainly transcriptions factor .

For example, antennapedia is a mutant gene in fruit fly, when get mutated , lead to the legs grow from the head.