Swine are vulnerable to infection by bird flu virus and human flu virus, which can both be present in an individual pig at the same time. When this occurs, it is possible for genes from bird flu virus and human flu virus to be combined. If the human flu virus contributes a gene for Tamiflu resistance (Tamiflu is an antiviral drug) to the new virus, and if the new virus is introduced to an environment lacking Tamiflu, then what is most likely to occur?
A) The new virus will maintain its Tamiflu-resistance gene, in case of future exposure to Tamiflu.
B) The Tamiflu-resistance gene will undergo mutations that convert it into a gene that has a useful function in this environment.
C) If the Tamiflu-resistance gene involves a cost, it will experience directional selection leading to reduction in its frequency.
D) If the Tamiflu-resistance gene confers no benefit in the current environment, and has no cost, the virus will increase in frequency.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the Tamiflu-resistance gene involves a cost, such as decreased virulence or decreased transmission capability, it will experience directional selection leading to a reduction in its frequency. This is because the cost of the gene makes it less advantageous for the virus to maintain it in the absence of Tamiflu. Therefore, it is unlikely that the virus will maintain the Tamiflu-resistance gene unless it confers a benefit in the absence of the drug.

Swine Are Vulnerable to Infection by Bird Flu Virus and Human