The function of an unknown gene can sometimes be determined by finding genes with similar sequence whose function is known. A gene's function may also be determined by identifying functional domains in the protein that it encodes.
-What is the difference between orthologs and paralogs?
A) Orthologs are homologous sequences; paralogs are analogous sequences.
B) Orthologs are more similar than paralogs.
C) Orthologs are in the same organism; paralogs are in different organisms.
D) Orthologs are in different organisms; paralogs are in the same organism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Orthologs are genes in different species that evolved from a common ancestral gene by speciation, while paralogs are genes related by duplication within a genome and are found in the same organism.

The Function of an Unknown Gene Can Sometimes Be Determined