Genetics: A Conceptual Approach
Genetics: A Conceptual Approach
6th Edition
ISBN: 9781319050962
Author: Benjamin A. Pierce
Publisher: W. H. Freeman
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Chapter 21, Problem 1COQ
Summary Introduction

To explain:

The thrifty phenotype hypothesis.

Introduction:

Phenotypes are the observable,physical characteristics of an individual that is expressed by certain genotypes. A set of genetic code expresses a phenotype of an organism.

Expert Solution
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Explanation of Solution

The thrifty phenotype hypothesis suggests that if there is a decrease in the fetal development then it is associated with the chronic condition throughout its life. This means if the environmental conditions are chronic during fetal growth, then it is expected that these conditions are likely to persist in its adult life as well.

Summary Introduction

To explain:

How thrifty phenotype hypothesis helps to explain the long-term effects of famine on people conceived during the Dutch Hunger Winter.

Introduction:

The thrifty phenotype hypothesis proposes that a reduction in the fetal development of an individual is most often associated with the chronic condition throughout his life.

Expert Solution
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Explanation of Solution

The thrifty phenotype hypothesis explains the long-term effects of famine (extreme scarcity of food) on the people who were conceived during the Dutch Hunger Winter. These effects occur due to the epigenetic changes in the genome of the people.

According to the thrifty phenotype hypothesis, if the environmental conditions are poor during the fetal development then these conditions are usually present in its adult life as well. Various studies have shown these individuals who are now adults experienced the caloric restriction while in the womb during the famine that had life-long consequences. For example – a man and women who conceived and underwent early fetal development during famine were likely to increase the susceptibility of adopting conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

Conclusion

Hence, a person who conceived during famine was likely to increase the susceptibility of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension. In this way thrifty phenotype hypothesis helps to explain the long-term effects of famine on the people who were conceived during the Dutch Hunger Winter.

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