A Barr body exists for the purpose of
A) protein dosage compensation.
B) insuring fertilization.
C) blocking the activity of the Y chromosome.
D) turning on the SRY gene.
E) activating master genes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A Barr body is an inactive X chromosome that has become condensed and is visible as a dark spot in the nucleus of female cells. The purpose of the Barr body is to ensure equal expression of X-linked genes between males (who only have one copy of the X chromosome) and females (who have two copies). This is achieved through a process called protein dosage compensation, where one of the X chromosomes in females becomes inactive and forms a Barr body, leaving only one active X chromosome to produce proteins.

A Barr Body Exists for the Purpose of