NEETZoologyPrinciples of Inheritance and Variation
What is the consequence of having more genes affected in α Thalassemia?
Options
- AMore α globin molecules are produced
- BFewer α globin molecules are produced
- CThe disease becomes less severe
- DThe disease turns into β Thalassemia
Correct answer
B. Fewer α globin molecules are produced
Step-by-step solution
This causes the formation of abnormal haemoglobin molecules resulting into anaemia which is characteristic of the disease. Thalassemia can be classified according to which chain of the haemoglobin molecule is affected. In α Thalassemia, production of α globin chain is affected while in β Thalassemia, production of β globin chain is affected. α Thalassemia is controlled by two closely linked genes HBA1 and HBA2 on chromosome 16 of each parent and it is observed due to mutation or deletion of one or more of the four