MCAT Biology : Regulation of Developmental Processes
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Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Regulation Of Developmental Processes
In all vertebrates, when the optic cup does not develop in the embryo the lens also does not develop either. This provides evidence for which of the following statements?
The eye develops early in vertebrate morphogenesis
Cells may induce neighboring cells to differentiate
Cell differentiation is an all-or-nothing phenomenon
The process of neurulation follows gastrulation
Cells may induce neighboring cells to differentiate
The failure of the lens to form in the absence of the optic cup indicates that the optic cup is necessary for lens development, and may in fact induce it.
This fact says nothing in regards to the timing of neurulation, nor the timing of eye development. Finally, cell differentiation is a gradual process, not all-or-nothing, and the statement is irrelevant to the development of the optic cup and lens.
Example Question #2 : Regulation Of Developmental Processes
What is the function of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)?
Erythropoiesis in the fetus
Female-to-male sexual differentiation in the fetus
Maternal satiation hormone
Negative feedback to inhibit menstrual cycle
Positive feedback to promote fetal growth hormones
Female-to-male sexual differentiation in the fetus
Anti-Mullerian hormone is present only in male fetuses. It is responsible for the degeneration of the Mullerian ducts, which form the oviducts, uterus, and upper vagina in females.
Example Question #3 : Regulation Of Developmental Processes
A deficiency of calcium in the diet can result in which of the following conditions?
Muscle spasms
Two of these answers
Reduced blood-oxygen carrying capacity
Increased blood-oxygen carrying capacity
Osteoporosis
Two of these answers
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes a decrease in bone mass and density and can be induced by malnutrition or calcium deficiency. Even if the disease appears unfamiliar, the prefix "osteo-" indicates a relationship to bone, which is closely linked to calcium levels int he body.
Calcium is also an important ion involved in neural action potentials; it is responsible for triggering the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. A calcium deficiency may cause improper action potentials that result in spasms.
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