MadSci Network: Genetics |
It is my understanding that "tongue-rolling" is controlled by a single autosomal gene; the allele for "tongue-rolling" is dominant. But, I would need to know more information to be able to answer your question about yur parents. We know that you have at least one copy of the "tongue-rolling" allele (T) because you have this talent; you could be TT or Tt genotypically. If you are TT, then at the very least both of your parents would also have to be heterozygous. If you are Tt genotypically, then only one parent need be heterozygous. Are both your parents tongue-rollers? If one is not, that parent is tt. If both can, then they are TT or Tt and we cannot tell the difference. Do you have brothers or sisters? Are they able to tongue-roll? This information would help to answer your question. If any siblings are non-tongue-rollers, but both parents are, then you know that both parents were heterozygous (Tt)for this trait. For more information on genetics, check out our archives or consult an introductory genetics textbook.
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