All female mammals have one active X chromosome per cell instead of two. What causes this to happen?
A) activation of the XIST gene on the X chromosome that will become the Barr body
B) activation of the BARR gene on one X chromosome, which then becomes inactive
C) inactivation of the XIST gene on the X chromosome derived from the male parent
D) attachment of methyl (-CH₃) groups to the X chromosome that will remain active

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The activation of the XIST gene on the X chromosome that will become the Barr body is responsible for the inactivation of one X chromosome in female mammals. XIST RNA coats the chromosome and recruits proteins that modify histones, leading to the formation of a heterochromatic state that silences gene expression on that chromosome.

All Female Mammals Have One Active X Chromosome Per Cell