During an experiment assessing the development of a fly embryo, a scientist artificially turns on a homeotic gene that controls eye development in somatic cells that develop into the wings. Which of the following is the most likely outcome of this experiment?
A)A normal adult fly will develop.
B)A mutant adult fly will develop that has eyes on its wings.
C)A mutant adult fly will develop that has legs on its head.
D)A mutant adult fly will develop that has no eyes on its head but has eyes on its wings.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Turning on a homeotic gene that controls eye development in somatic cells that develop into the wings would result in the mutation of these cells, causing the development of eyes on the wings. This mutation would not affect the development of cells that become legs, so it is unlikely that legs would develop on the head. Additionally, the mutation would not affect the development of eyes on the head, so they would still develop normally. Therefore, option B is the most likely outcome.

During an Experiment Assessing the Development of a Fly Embryo