During an experiment assessing the development of a fly embryo, a scientist artificially turns on a homeotic gene that controls eye development in somatic cells that normally develop into the wings. Which of the following is the most likely outcome of this experiment?
A) A normal adult fly will develop.
B) A mutant adult fly will develop that has eyes on its wings.
C) A mutant adult fly will develop that has legs on its head.
D) A mutant adult fly will develop that has no eyes on its head but has eyes on its wings.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Turning on a homeotic gene that controls eye development in somatic cells that normally develop into the wings can lead to a mutation that results in the development of eyes on the wings of the fly. This is because homeotic genes determine the fate and identity of body parts during development. When the gene is activated in the wrong cells, it can lead to the development of a body part in an abnormal location, as is the case with eyes on the wings in this experiment.

During an Experiment Assessing the Development of a Fly Embryo