Which statement about pseudogenes is false?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pseudogenes are nonfunctional copies of genes that have undergone mutations and are no longer able to produce a functional protein. Therefore, choice D, which states that they are functional copies of genes, is false. Choices A and B are true, as pseudogenes are indeed nonfunctional copies of genes that can evolve faster than synonymous substitutions. Choice C is generally false, as pseudogenes generally evolve slower than nonsynonymous substitutions due to the lack of selective pressure. Choice E is true, as pseudogenes can potentially regain function through the acquisition of beneficial mutations, becoming functional paralogs.

Which Statement About Pseudogenes Is False