Selfish Genetic Elements

Question 1

HEG

Answer 1

Homing endonuclease genes

Question 2

Describe HEG in yeast

Answer 2

1. Produces endonuclease
2. Endonuclease cuts (but not itself) -> causes damage
3. Repair mechanism copies HEG as template
4. Essentially turns a hétérozygote into a homozygote

Question 3

Spread of selfish genes depends upon

Answer 3

Mating system

Question 4

Genes exist as a

Answer 4

Parliament

Question 5

Describe the t haplotype in house mice

Answer 5

• 300 genes inherited
• t haplotype sperm can damage others
• 10-15% frequency
• much lower sperm count

Question 6

Driver

Answer 6

Selfish genetic element