Question

Is it possible to change a particular character or trait in a multicellular organism by changing d gene for that character or trait in one of its cells?Validate your answer with reasons.

Answer 1

No, it is not possible to change a particular character or trait in a multicellular organism by changing the gene for that character or trait in one of its cells. The gene for the character or trait will need to be changed in all the cells of the organism unless the change occurs in a pluripotent cell (a cell capable of dividing and forming all the different cell types). If changes are made in a pluripotent cell (such as cells of the zygote), the trait will pass to all the differentiated cells of the organism as the organism develops and hence, the particular character can be changed.