Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main difference between centromeric DNA organization in Drosophila melanogaster and humans, as depicted in the images?

Accepted Answer

Human centromeres are composed of a single type of satellite DNA, whereas Drosophila centromeres contain multiple types of repetitive elements, including transposons and different satellite DNAs.

Question 2

Based on the diagrams, which type of repetitive DNA is unique to Drosophila centromeres but not found in human centromeres?

Accepted Answer

AATAT satellite DNA

Question 3

If a mutation disrupted the AAACA satellite DNA in Drosophila, which cellular process would most likely be affected?

Accepted Answer

Chromosome segregation during mitosis

Question 4

Given that human centromeres are approximately 1–5 Mb in size and composed mainly of satellite DNA, what is the most likely function of this repetitive DNA?

Accepted Answer

To provide structural integrity and facilitate kinetochore assembly during cell division

Question 5

Which of the following statements about transposons in Drosophila centromeres is supported by the diagram?

Accepted Answer

Transposons are interspersed with satellite DNA and non-repetitive DNA within the centromere.

Question 6

A researcher uses fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect AATAT satellite DNA in Drosophila. Where would the strongest signal be expected?

Accepted Answer

In the centromeric region

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why centromeric DNA is highly repetitive in both Drosophila and humans?

Accepted Answer

Repetitive DNA sequences are necessary for the binding of specific proteins involved in chromosome segregation.

Question 8

If a Drosophila chromosome lost all its non-repetitive DNA in the centromeric region, what would be the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The chromosome might still segregate properly if the repetitive DNA is sufficient for kinetochore assembly.

Question 9

Which experimental approach would best distinguish between the different types of satellite DNA in Drosophila centromeres?

Accepted Answer

PCR with primers specific to each satellite DNA sequence

Question 10

Why might the presence of multiple types of repetitive DNA in Drosophila centromeres be evolutionarily advantageous?

Accepted Answer

It provides redundancy for centromere function and may protect against chromosomal rearrangements.

Genomic Organization, Chromatin Structure, and Gene Regulation

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