Individuals with the disorder xeroderma pigmentosum are hypersensitive to sunlight. This occurs because their cells have which impaired ability?
A)They cannot replicate DNA.
B)They cannot undergo mitosis.
C)They cannot exchange DNA with other cells.
D)They cannot repair thymine dimers.
E)They do not recombine homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Xeroderma pigmentosum is caused by a defect in the ability to repair thymine dimers that are formed during exposure to UV radiation. Without this repair mechanism, the accumulation of DNA damage leads to hypersensitivity to sunlight and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Individuals with the Disorder Xeroderma Pigmentosum Are Hypersensitive to Sunlight