Biotechnology

AP Biology· difficulty 2/5

A Northern blot probed for gene X shows a thick band in liver, a thin band in brain, and no band in muscle.

Northern blot: tissue expression Liver Brain Muscle

What does the figure most directly indicate?

  • A

    Gene X protein is largest in muscle.

  • B

    Brain expresses an alternatively spliced isoform of gene X.

  • C

    Liver has lost the gene X locus.

  • D

    Gene X mRNA is most abundant in liver and not detectable in muscle.

    check_circle

Explanation

Northern blots detect mRNA. Band thickness reflects transcript abundance: liver expresses the most gene X mRNA; brain low; muscle below detection.

Want 10 more like this — adaptive to your weak spots?

Related questions