The effects of mutation in human somatic cells have a low probability of causing harm because only _______ of human DNA encodes gene products.
A) greater than 5 percent
B) less than 2 percent
C) less than 4 percent
D) greater than 8 percent
E) greater than 3 percent

Question

The effects of mutation in human somatic cells have a low probability of causing harm because only _______ of human DNA encodes gene products.  
A) greater than 5 percent
B) less than 2 percent
C) less than 4 percent
D) greater than 8 percent
E) greater than 3 percent

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Only about 1-2% of human DNA encodes for gene products, meaning that mutations in the remaining non-coding regions are unlikely to have significant effects on the body. Therefore, the probability of harm from a mutation in a somatic cell is low.

The Effects of Mutation in Human Somatic Cells Have a Low