Biology/Multiple allels
Advertisement
Question
Hello! would you please explain to me the definition of multiple allels? aren't all allels multiple and do non-multiple allels exist?
Thank you
Thanks for using AllExperts, David. "Multiple alleles" refers to a specific case in which there are three or more alleles for a gene; there is no special term when there are just two alleles for a given gene. Because humans (and most other eukaryotes) are diploid, only two alleles can be expressed in any one organism for any one gene, but there's no special requirement that a given gene be restricted to just two alleles--it only makes for easier teaching of the concept in the first place. Human eye color, for instance, is determined by the interactions of three distinct alleles, as is human blood type. And because all genes have at least two alleles, no entity such as a "non-multiple allele" exists; every gene has at least two variations of itself.
You can find an explanation of the concept by a scientist here:
http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/mole00/mole00087.htm
- Add to this Answer
- Ask a Question
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Very Helpful answer and link. | ||
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
John Locke
Expertise
I will answer all biology-related questions through the undergraduate level. I will explain unclear concepts and suggest approaches to solving problems, but would prefer not to completely solve homework problems for you. If you are completely stumped on homework, tell me what you already know and I will help you as much as possible. Please do not ask me for ideas on school research projects; part of research is determining a suitable area of investigation, and that's not a task that should be completed by someone else. Please don't simply send me your homework for solutions. If you are having difficulty after you have started an analysis, I will be happy to direct your thinking; in particular, I would prefer to not simply solve pedigrees for students, but I will be happy to assist in solving pedigrees that you have already started. If you don't understand how to analyze a pedigree, I'd highly recommend watching this video, in which a biology professor explains the basic concepts of pedigree analysis: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbIHjsn5cHo
Experience
I have a BS in Bioengineering with a concentration in Chemical Engineering (which included a heavy focus on biology), and have taught biology, biochemistry, and related subjects for some time now.
Education/Credentials
BS Bioengineering, Penn State University
MCAT/DAT/OAT Instructor
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.