Asked by Alana Burns on Apr 26, 2024

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Madison drank contaminated water,which contained toxic molecules that blocked the expression of some of her genes.As a result,she is now highly allergic to certain foods.This best illustrates the impact of

A) digestive enzymes.
B) stress hormones.
C) epigenetic marks.
D) natural selection.

Epigenetic Marks

Chemical modifications to DNA and histone proteins that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, impacting development and health.

Allergic

Having an immune response to a substance that most people tolerate well.

Toxic Molecules

Harmful chemical substances that can cause damage to biological organisms through their toxic effects.

  • Grasp the concept of epigenetics and how external factors can influence gene expression during prenatal development and beyond.
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JT
Jessica TobinApr 27, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
The toxic molecules in the contaminated water blocked the expression of some of Madison's genes, leading to changes in her phenotype (allergies to certain foods). This is an example of epigenetic marks, which are chemical modifications to the DNA molecule that can turn genes on or off without changing the underlying genetic sequence.