Males tend to be affected in greater numbers by X-linked recessive genetic disorders than are females because
A) expression of the recessive gene is inactivated by the other X chromosome in females.
B) males have only one X chromosome.
C) males have a double dose of the gene.
D) Y chromosomes are destabilized by the X chromosomes.
E) females have only one X chromosome.

Question

Males tend to be affected in greater numbers by X-linked recessive genetic disorders than are females because  
A) expression of the recessive gene is inactivated by the other X chromosome in females.
B) males have only one X chromosome.
C) males have a double dose of the gene.
D) Y chromosomes are destabilized by the X chromosomes.
E) females have only one X chromosome.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Males have only one X chromosome, so if their X chromosome carries a recessive genetic disorder, they will express it. Females have two X chromosomes, so even if one X chromosome carries a recessive genetic disorder, there is a chance that the other X chromosome will carry a normal copy of the gene that can compensate and prevent expression of the disorder. This phenomenon is known as X-linked recessive inheritance.

Males Tend to Be Affected in Greater Numbers by X-Linked