Question

Which are the cartoon characters that share their name with that of a gene?
(A) Tintin
(B) Popeye
(C) Asterix
(D) Obelix

Answer 1

Hint: Genes are part of DNA which are present on a chromosome. They carry information for the protein to be synthesized. Genes are usually named with combinations of letters and numbers in a random sequence. But, few times scientists name genes based on movie characters, cartoon characters, awkward social situations, etc.

Complete Answer:
- Tintin, Popeye, Asterix and Obelix are quite famous cartoon characters, few of which are used to name genes. The mutation of certain genes often causes humorous or adverse effects that results in giving unique funny names to the genes responsible.
- The cartoon character Popeye, the sailor is used for naming a set of transmembrane genes which are present abundantly in skeletal and cardiac muscles. This is based on the fact that the character Popeye had a muscular figure.
- Popeye domain containing protein (POPDC) is a set of membrane associated proteins which help in the regulation of skeletal and cardiac muscles. Inactivation or mutation in this gene lead to irregular activities of skeletal and cardiac muscles.
- Asterix and Obelix are two known characters from the comic show, Asterix. Both the characters, Asterix and Obelix are close friends, and hence they are used to name two genes which function together.
- Asterix and Obelix genes are two early response genes which respond transiently and rapidly to a wide variety of cellular stimuli. This is in accordance with the characters Asterix and Obelix in the comic series, which are brave, intelligent and respond first to any kind of perilous activities.

Understanding the options one by one,
(A) Tintin – This doesn’t share its name with that of a gene. It is often considered that TITIN gene, which is responsible for the passive elasticity of muscles in humans, is named after the character Tintin. But, it is not.
Whereas, option (B), (C) and (D) are cartoon characters that share their names with that of a gene.

Therefore, Option (B), (C) and (D) are correct.

Note: Scientists make use of cartoon characters to name genes, if the function of the gene and the character are nearly the same. Popeye is known for his muscular figure and hence, transmembrane genes which are present in muscles are named after the character. The character, Asterix and Obelix are close friends and hence two early response genes which are functioning together are named after their character.