Lactose Intolerance and Digestion

Miss Porter discusses lactose tolerance and intolerance, linking it to enzymes and mutations. The video covers biomolecules, focusing on carbohydrates and enzymes like lactase. It explains lactose digestion, the causes of lactose intolerance, and the evolutionary history of lactose tolerance. Genetic mutations in different populations are highlighted, and the video concludes with a recap and self-assessment questions.

What is the primary function of carbohydrates in living organisms?

• To store genetic information

• To provide structural support

• To serve as a source of energy

• To catalyze biochemical reactions

Which of the following is NOT one of the four main biomolecules discussed?

• Vitamins

• Proteins

• Carbohydrates

• Nucleic acids

What is the role of lactase in the human body?

• To break down proteins

• To synthesize DNA

• To break down lactose into simpler sugars

• To store energy

What happens when lactose is not properly digested in the small intestine?

• It causes discomfort due to bacterial fermentation

• It is absorbed into the bloodstream

• It strengthens the intestinal walls

• It is converted into proteins

Approximately how many years ago were all human populations lactose intolerant?

• 5,000 years ago

• 10,000 years ago

• 15,000 years ago

• 20,000 years ago

What was a significant advantage for early humans who could digest milk?

• They could live longer lives

• They could travel longer distances

• They had a clean and reliable food source

• They could avoid all diseases

Which chromosome is the gene controlling lactase activity located on?

• Chromosome 4

• Chromosome 3

• Chromosome 2

• Chromosome 1

What type of mutation is responsible for lactase persistence in Northern European populations?

• Duplication mutation

• Substitution mutation

• Insertion mutation

• Deletion mutation

Which region's populations are most likely to have the ancestral version of the lactase gene?

• South America

• West Africa

• East Africa

• Northern Europe

What is the term used to describe the ability to digest lactose into adulthood?

• Lactose sensitivity

• Lactose deficiency

• Lactose intolerance

• Lactose persistence