Question

A pleiotropic gene

• A. controls multiple traits in an individual
• B. controls a trait only in combination with another gene
• C. is a gene evolved during Pliocene
• D. is expressed only in primitive plants

Answer 1

The correct option is A

controls multiple traits in an individual

The correct option is A.

Explanation of correct option:

1. A pleiotropic gene is a type of gene that controls multiple phenotypic traits in an individual.
2. A pleiotropic gene affects metabolic pathways which give rise to diverse traits.
3. Phenylketonuria is an example of pleiotropism. This disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for phenylalanine hydroxylase.
4. Phenylketonuria is characterized by different phenotypic traits such as skin pigmentation, hair reduction, and mental retardation.

Final answer: A pleiotropic gene controls multiple traits in an individual.