Epigenetics might best explain which of the following phenomena?

• A. Identical twins having different traits despite having the same DNA
• B. The process of DNA replication during cell division
• C. The synthesis of proteins from mRNA
• D. The mutation rate of DNA in a population

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of epigenetics: Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can be influenced by environmental factors and can affect how genes are turned on or off.
2. Consider the phenomenon of identical twins: Identical twins originate from the same fertilized egg and therefore have the same DNA. However, they can exhibit different traits due to epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression.
3. Analyze how epigenetics can lead to different traits: Environmental factors such as diet, stress, and exposure to toxins can lead to epigenetic changes. These changes can result in different traits in identical twins despite their identical genetic makeup.
4. Differentiate epigenetics from other processes: DNA replication, protein synthesis, and mutation rates involve changes at the genetic or molecular level, whereas epigenetics involves changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.
5. Conclude why epigenetics is the best explanation: Given that identical twins have the same DNA, epigenetics provides a plausible explanation for their differing traits due to its role in modifying gene expression based on environmental influences.