[Campbell Biology P.505] The text discusses two distinct evolutionary outcomes of gene dupli... | Practice Question

The text discusses two distinct evolutionary outcomes of gene duplication. Which statement accurately differentiates the evolution of the globin gene family from that of the lysozyme/α-lactalbumin family?

  • A: Globin genes diversified to perform similar oxygen transport functions, while lysozyme/α-lactalbumin evolved to perform distinct novel functions (bacterial defense vs. milk production).
  • B: Both gene families primarily evolved novel functions through gene duplication.
  • C: Globin genes are only found in mammals, while lysozyme and α-lactalbumin are found in both birds and mammals.
  • D: The globin gene family evolved through exon shuffling, whereas the lysozyme/α-lactalbumin family evolved through whole gene duplication.

Explanation

The text states that globin gene families' protein products performed 'similar functions' oxygen transport , while the lysozyme gene duplicated in mammals, and one copy evolved into α-lactalbumin, a protein with a 'completely new function' milk production , distinct from lysozyme's bacterial defense.