Why is sequencing an entire genome, such as that of C. elegans, a nematode, important for genetic research?
A) It allows researchers to use the sequence to build a "better" nematode, which is resistant to disease.
B) It allows research on a group of organisms we do not usually care much about.
C) A sequence that is found to have a particular function in the nematode is likely to have a closely related function in vertebrates.
D) A sequence that is found to have no introns in the nematode genome is likely to have acquired the introns from higher organisms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sequencing the entire genome of C. elegans allows researchers to identify genes and sequences that are important for the nematode's development and function. Since nematodes are evolutionarily distant from humans, discovering a sequence with a similar function in humans would suggest that the sequence is evolutionarily conserved and is likely to be important for basic cellular processes across all animals, including humans. This knowledge can then be applied to better understand human genetics and biology.

Why Is Sequencing an Entire Genome, Such as That of C