A mutation affecting the cytoplasmic distribution among dividing daughter cells in female meiosis prevents the normal distribution between the secondary oocyte and the polar body. Instead, two identically sized daughter cells with the same amount of cytoplasm are produced after each division while polar bodies are still designated and disintegrated. Knowing the main function of the polar body, what effect might this mutation have?
A)Sperm will not be able to penetrate the egg.
B)Oocytes with abnormal chromosome numbers will result and produce zygotes with further abnormal numbers.
C)After fertilization, the zygote may not have enough organelles and nutrients to support further cell divisions.
D)Embryos developed from the mutated secondary oocyte will lack the X chromosome.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The main function of the polar body in female meiosis is to discard the extra set of chromosomes, ensuring the oocyte has the correct number for fertilization, while also concentrating cytoplasm and organelles in the oocyte. If the mutation causes equal cytoplasmic distribution between the secondary oocyte and the polar body, the oocyte may not receive enough cytoplasm and organelles, which are crucial for supporting early embryonic development after fertilization. This could lead to insufficient resources for the zygote, affecting cell divisions and development.

A Mutation Affecting the Cytoplasmic Distribution Among Dividing Daughter Cells