How Can the Number of Genes Influencing a Trait Be

Question

How can the number of genes influencing a trait be estimated?
A) Phenotypic segregation
B) DNA hybridization
C) Northern blotting
D) Allelism
E) Ames Test

Accepted Answer

Phenotypic segregation refers to the observation of how traits segregate among offspring. By analyzing the inheritance patterns of a trait in a family or population, one can infer the number of genes that are involved in controlling that trait. For example, if a trait shows a 3:1 ratio of dominant to recessive phenotypes in the offspring of a heterozygous parent, it suggests that the trait is controlled by a single gene. More complex patterns of inheritance, such as incomplete dominance or multiple alleles, can also provide clues to the number of genes involved. However, this method is based on observation and inference, and may not always accurately reflect the underlying genetics of a trait.