Which of the following is an example of a teratogen?

Question

A. ethidium bromide- cell permeable chemical that intercalates itself into DNA and has the potential to disrupt cell divisions and cause DNA damage

B.curlytail mutation inherited from both gametes leading to improper neural tube closure

C.progestin-based birth control pill which prevents ovulation of a mature oocyte into the ovaries

D.All of these are teratogens

E.None of these are teratogens

Answer 1

Given your choices, I'm fairly certain the answer is A. Ethidium Bromide, because this substance is used to tag DNA for imaging in labs and is widely known to be a carcinogen and/or teratogen.

 

Since teratogens are classified as substances or chemicals that interfere with normal human development as a result of exposure during pregnancy, I don't think birth control/contraceptives would be classified as teratogens, nor would inherited mutations as these are naturally occurring and not always induced by chemical substances.

 

Hopefully this helps!