RNA viruses code for polymerases that do not proofread replicated viral chromosomes. Consequently, RNA viruses experience extremely high mutation rates
Whereas RNA viruses have mutation rates of about 1/10,000 base pairs per replication, their human hosts show mutation rates that by the same measure are at least 1 million times lower. Speculate on differences between vertebrates and viruses that led to the evolution of such widely diverging mutation rates.
a. DNA polymerases have a built-in proofreading function.
b. RNA viruses are so simple that virtually all mutations are neutral or adaptive.
c. Vertebrates compensate for low individual mutation rates via having large population sizes.
d. There is extensive pleiotropy in vertebrate genomes.
D
You might also like to view...
Which of the following products are considered final products in the information flow within a cell?
A) DNA B) RNA C) protein D) lipid E) both choices B and C
What are 3 adaptations of penguins for living in the sea?
What will be an ideal response?
Genes are composed of
a. DNA. b. proteins. c. chromosomes. d. carbohydrates. e. lipids.
The neurotransmitter found at the synapse between nerves and human skeletal muscle cells is
A) acetylcholine. B) epinephrine. C) dopamine. D) serotonin.