Question

For which of the following medical conditions is the interaction of genes and environment likely to be important in the manifestation of the phenotype? A) alcoholism B) type 2 diabetes C) obesity D) A and C E) All of the above

Answer 1

All of the three phenotypes can be the result of the interaction between genes and environment.

Alcoholism- it has been found that people with a family history of alcohol addiction are more likely to develop this phenotype than others. Genes, together with environmental factors, such as, stressful condition, mental health, etc. greatly increases the probability of expressing this phenotype.

Type II diabetes- this disease is again linked with family history. Numerous genetic mutations together with environmental factors are responsible for the development of type II diabetes. Mutations in genes controlling glucose level, insulin production, genes encoding glucose receptors and its transportation, etc. increases the risk of developing the disease. Environmental factors that play a role includes- food habits, physical inactivity, smoking, etc.

Obesity- physical inactivity, unhealthy food habits, unhealthy lifestyle are some of the environmental factors that can contribute to the development of obesity. Genes that are responsible for obesity include LEP (leptin), LEPR (leptin receptor), POMC (pro-opiomelanocortin), PCSK1 (pro-hormone convertase 1), etc.

Thus, genetic factors together with outer environment can greatly amplify the risk of developing all these phenotypes. So, the correct option will be E (all of the above).