MCAT Biology Question 40: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 40

10. A child is born with webbed toes. This pathology is most likely accounted for by a failure of:

  • A. cell differentiation.
  • B. cell determination.
  • C. apoptosis.
  • D. neurulation.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

During development, programmed cell death occurs in multiple locations in order to ensure development of the correct adult structures. One of the places in which this occurs is between fingers and toes. If apoptosis does not occur correctly in these locations, then an infant may be born with webbed fingers or toes. Failure of determination or differentiation would likely result in an absence of digits, eliminating choices (A) and (B). Failure of neurulation would lead to an absence of a nervous system and would not be compatible with life, eliminating choice (D).

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