How has gene duplication played a critical role in evolution?

• A. It prevents mutations from occurring in the genome.
• B. It allows for the creation of new genes with novel functions.
• C. It leads to the immediate extinction of species.
• D. It reduces genetic diversity within a population.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Gene duplication is a process where an organism gains extra copies of a gene, which can occur through errors in DNA replication or through events like unequal crossing over during meiosis.
2. These extra gene copies are free from the selective pressures that the original gene is under, allowing them to accumulate mutations without affecting the organism's survival.
3. Over time, these mutations can lead to the duplicated gene developing a new function, a process known as neofunctionalization, which can provide evolutionary advantages.
4. Gene duplication can also lead to subfunctionalization, where the original and duplicated genes divide the work of the original gene, potentially increasing efficiency or allowing specialization.
5. This process contributes to genetic diversity and complexity, enabling organisms to adapt to new environments and challenges, thus playing a critical role in evolution by allowing for the creation of new genes with novel functions.