B. Include a DNA sequence called the homeobox that is similar in all homeotic genes. C. Are altered in homeotic mutations such as Antennapedia, causing abnormal development of the head. D. Are similar beteween mice and flies for both structure and order on the chromosome. E. All are true. Tutorial Images courtesy of F. R. Turner at Indiana University.
Pattern formation is essential to the development of all organisms.
Once the basic pattern of a developing organism has been established, homeotic genes tell each segment what to develop into. Mutations in homeotic genes have given scientists insight into how these genes work. One such mutation is the antennapedia mutation in Drosophila . This drastic mutation causes legs to grow in the place where antennae are normally found. Homeotic genes appear to be similar among all animals.