Question

Thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are caused due to a problem in globin molecule synthesis. Select the correct statement.

• A. Both are due to a qualitative defect in globin chain synthesis
• B. Both are due to a quantitative defect in globin chain synthesis
• C. Thalassemia is due to less synthesis of globin molecules
• D. Sickle cell anemia is due to a quantitative problem of globin molecules

Answer 1

The correct option is C Thalassemia is due to less synthesis of globin molecules

Sickle cell anemia is a qualitative defect in globin chain synthesis due to the substitution of glutamic acid (Glu) by valine (Val) at the sixth position of the beta globin chain of the haemoglobin molecule (point mutation).

Thalassemia is a quantitative defect in globin chain synthesis caused due to reduced rate of synthesis of globin chains (a` or a^).