g Assume that for a given gene a mutation creates an allele that functions as a dominant negative. The gene codes for a protein
that forms a tetramer (4) within the cell. If at least one of the subunits has the mutant structure the entire protein is inactivated. For a heterozygous individual, what percent of the tretramers present in the cell will be inactive?
At least 50% of the tetramers will be inactive for this individual
Explanation:
A protein resulting from a mutation that is dominant negative will have an detrimental impact on the wild-type protein as well. Especially if the mutated protein can interact with the same substances as the normal, wild-type protein.
For an individual who is heterozygous, there will be one wild-type copy and one mutant copy of the allele present. For each copy, a protein will be expressed and the tetramers from the mutant copy will be defective - so 50% of the protein tetramers will be inactive at least.
The primary consumers like rabbits or other small animals that are normally eaten by the secondary consumers (snakes) would over populate and eat all of the producers (plants) and the plants would die out. This would eventually lead to the decrease of the primary consumer (rabbit/small animals) population.
