A SNP is in a non-coding region of DNA that has no effect on phenotype. One of the alleles of the SNP appears to be decreasing in frequency in the population. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this decrease in frequency? A. Genetic drift B. Mutation C. Directional selection D. Inbreeding Negative selection

Question

Homer

Biology

8 January, 16:13

A SNP is in a non-coding region of DNA that has no effect on phenotype. One of the alleles of the SNP appears to be decreasing in frequency in the population. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this decrease in frequency? A. Genetic drift B. Mutation C. Directional selection D. Inbreeding Negative selection

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Answers (1)

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Celia Ramos · Answer 1

The correct answer is mutation.

Explanation:

As we can see in the question premise, the SNP in issue is in a non-coding section of DNA, so it cannot be expressed in phenotype.

Given this condition, it cannot be selected in any way, either negatively or directionally. Since there cannot be a selection process, it is impossible, at least for this SNP, to trigger a process such as gene drift.