A woman carrying dizygotic twins drinks alcohol. The twins' blood alcohol levels are equal, yet one twin may be more severely affected than the other because their alleles for the enzyme that metabolizes alcohol differ. This is evidence that the _____ influence the effects of teratogens.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that one twin may be more severely affected than the other due to differences in their alleles for the enzyme that metabolizes alcohol suggests that the genes of the embryo/fetus influence the effects of teratogens. This is because the ability to metabolize and eliminate teratogens from the body can vary depending on genetic factors. The age of the embryo/fetus and the dose of the teratogen can also play a role in determining the effects of teratogens, but this particular scenario highlights the impact of genetic factors. The genes of the parent may also contribute to the susceptibility of the embryo/fetus to the effects of teratogens, but this is not directly relevant to the example provided.

A Woman Carrying Dizygotic Twins Drinks Alcohol