How is lateral gene transfer different from the gene duplication that occurs during cell division?

• A. Lateral gene transfer occurs only in eukaryotic cells, while gene duplication occurs only in prokaryotic cells.
• B. Lateral gene transfer results in identical copies of genes, whereas gene duplication introduces genetic variation.
• C. Lateral gene transfer is a process of asexual reproduction, whereas gene duplication is a form of sexual reproduction.
• D. Lateral gene transfer involves the transfer of genetic material between different species, while gene duplication occurs within the same organism during cell division.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of lateral gene transfer: It is the movement of genetic material between different species, often facilitated by mechanisms such as bacterial conjugation, transformation, or transduction.
2. Recognize the concept of gene duplication: This occurs within the same organism during cell division, where a segment of DNA is copied, resulting in multiple copies of the same gene within the genome.
3. Differentiate between the processes: Lateral gene transfer involves interspecies genetic exchange, whereas gene duplication is an intraspecies event that increases gene copy number within an organism.
4. Consider the implications of each process: Lateral gene transfer can introduce new genetic traits from other species, potentially leading to rapid adaptation, while gene duplication can lead to genetic variation and evolution within a species.
5. Clarify the context of reproduction: Lateral gene transfer is not directly related to reproduction but can occur in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, whereas gene duplication is a part of the normal cell division process, contributing to genetic diversity within a species.