Question

Difficulty: MediumCell Biology, Genetics, and Evolution

Match the genetic phenomena listed in List-I with their correct biological descriptions in List-II:

  • PleiotropyA condition in which a single gene influences multiple, distinct phenotypic traits
  • EpistasisA gene interaction wherein the phenotypic expression of one gene alters or masks that of another independent gene
  • Polygenic InheritanceA quantitative phenotypic trait controlled by the cumulative additive effects of multiple independent genes
  • CodominanceA relationship where both alleles at a locus in a heterozygote are fully and equally expressed without blending

Answer

Pleiotropy corresponds to a single gene influencing multiple phenotypic traits; Epistasis corresponds to one gene masking or altering the expression of another gene; Polygenic Inheritance corresponds to a quantitative trait controlled by multiple additive genes; Codominance corresponds to equal and simultaneous expression of both alleles in a heterozygote.
Each genetic phenomenon is accurately matched to its definition: Pleiotropy denotes a single gene governing multiple phenotypic features; Epistasis describes masking interactions between different gene loci; Polygenic inheritance describes multiple genes combining additively for a single trait; and Codominance describes the distinct, unblended expression of both heterozygous alleles.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define Pleiotropy and connect to its mechanism
Matched with the description of a single gene controlling multiple phenotypic effects
Pleiotropy represents the multi-trait manifestation of a single mutation or gene locus.
2
Differentiate Epistasis from standard allelic dominance
Matched with the description where one gene modifies or masks the expression of another independent gene
Epistasis involves non-allelic gene interaction across different loci.
3
Analyze Polygenic Inheritance
Matched with the cumulative additive effect of multiple genes creating continuous variation
Polygenic traits are metric traits governed by numerous loci.
4
Identify Codominance
Matched with equal and simultaneous phenotypic expression of both alleles in a heterozygote
Codominance differs from incomplete dominance because neither allele is recessive or blended.

Key Concept

Non-Mendelian Genetic Interactions and Inheritance Patterns
Estimated Time:1m 15s
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