When a segment of DNA duplicates,causing two copies of a gene to be present in the chromosome,the duplicate copy could possibly (Check all that apply)
A)lose function due to mutation.
B)become an ortholog.
C)gain a new function due to mutation.
D)become a pseudogene.
E)become a centromere.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a gene duplicates, the duplicate copy could potentially undergo mutation resulting in loss of function or gain of a new function. It could also become a pseudogene, which is a non-functional copy of a gene. Becoming an ortholog would require divergence over time, which is not a guarantee when a gene duplicates. Becoming a centromere is unlikely, as centromeres typically have specific DNA sequences and are not the result of gene duplication.

When a Segment of DNA Duplicates,causing Two Copies of a Gene