[Campbell Biology P.516] Dr. Extavour poses a fundamental question: "What's mysterious is, s... | Practice Question

Dr. Extavour poses a fundamental question: "What's mysterious is, since every cell in the body has the same set of instructions, why aren't they all doing the same thing?" This question primarily addresses which biological principle?

  • A: Genetic mutation leading to evolutionary divergence.
  • B: Differential gene expression and cell differentiation.
  • C: The process of sexual reproduction and gamete formation.
  • D: Horizontal gene transfer between different species.

Explanation

The question posed by Dr. Extavour directly highlights the paradox of identical genetic material leading to diverse cell types and functions. This phenomenon is explained by differential gene expression, where different sets of genes are activated or silenced in different cells, leading to their specialization cell differentiation .