If a gene in Drosophila is expressed only when an imaginal disc (A)begins to differentiate, it is referred to as a homeotic gene. Recessive mutations in such genes often result in loss of function so that the structure does not develop. If the gene is expressed, but in a different imaginal disc (B), what is the result?
A)loss of function of disc B's primary gene
B)gain of function of several inappropriate genes in disc A
C)gain of function in disc B at the "wrong" location
D)deregulation of gene expression throughout disc A
E)deregulation of gene expression throughout disc B

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the gene is expressed in a different imaginal disc, it may cause the gene to be active at the “wrong” location, resulting in a gain of function in disc B. This can lead to the development of structures in disc B that would not typically be present or a change in the structure of disc B. However, it would not lead to loss of function in disc B's primary gene or deregulation of gene expression throughout disc A or B.

If a Gene in Drosophila Is Expressed Only When an Imaginal