Write note on Lethal and sublethal genes in about 150 words
(10 Marks) Anthropology Optional Paper CSE 2024
Introduction
Lethal and sublethal genes are genetic variants that affect the survival and viability of an organism. These genes can have significant evolutionary and biological implications, particularly in shaping population genetics and human health. For more details, visit Lethal and sublethal genes
Main Body
When expressed, lethal genes cause death in either a homozygous or heterozygous form, depending on how dominant they are. For instance, fatalities before birth or in the early stages of development may result from certain gene alterations linked to vital biological functions. On the other hand, sublethal genes do not result in instant death but rather lower fitness, which might lead to health issues or poorer reproductive outcomes. They could appear as hereditary illnesses that reduce life expectancy or make it harder for a person to adapt to their surroundings and succeed. These genes impact gene frequencies and add to our knowledge of natural selection and human adaptation, and making them significant for anthropology and research on populations.
Conclusion
Lethal and sublethal genes play a crucial role in human evolution by influencing survival and reproductive success. Understanding these genes provides insights into genetic disorders, population dynamics, and evolutionary processes.