Download and print the homeobox genes document (link below). This simple exercis

Question

Download and print the homeobox genes document (link below). This simple exercise shows the remarkable similarity of genes used in development in almost all animals. It reveals that a major change from arthropods to mammals was the multiplication of these genes. These genes control the formation of the basic body plan of all animals. Complete the exercise and then answer the following questions. Use your browser to search information about the two genes in the questions.

1. What is similar about the positions of the HOX genes on the chromosomes in the fruit fly and mouse?

2. Describe the function of HOX genes in general, not the specific genes.

3. There is a gene in the fruit fly (Drosophila) called antennepedia. It controls the formation of which structures? What happens when it is mutated?

4. The article mentions the strong similarity of HOX genes involved in eye development in different animals. What is the function of the Pax 6 gene in the mouse eye?

http://www-tc.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/library/03/4/pdf/l_034_06.pdf

Explanation / Answer

1.Hox genes are usedto control limb formation.The limb (arms, legs, wings, etc.) begin as bud. Limb formation starts out as similar between mice and fruit flies because growth starts from a bud to a limb, but their expression is different.A limb to become a wing is much different than a limb to become a leg.

2.Hox genes encode transcription factors which help in regulating body formation during develpment.It reflects the anterior-posterior expression in the body.

3.Antenneoedia gene controls formation of legs during development in drosophila.It is also responsible for formation and differentiation inthoracic and head parts of fly body.if tis gene is mutated the discs produce antenna in right side instead of left side.

4.Pax6 genes are transcriptional factors.they help to control the expression of particular genes in the structures of eye

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