Question

The term ‘eugenics’ was given by Francis Galton and inborn errors of metabolism was studied by
A) Galton
B) Garrod
C) Barr
D) Both A & B

Answer 1

Eugenics is a term that refers to practices that can lead to betterment of human populations genetically. On the other hand, Inborn errors of metabolism refers to metabolic disorders that occur due to genetic deficiencies. The practice of “eugenics’ preceded the discovery of ‘Inborn errors of Metabolism’.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Option (a) is incorrect. Francis Galton harboured the idea of improving human population. He believed this can be achieved through selective breeding. The idea of Galton was shaped by the studies of Charles Darwin on evolution. Selective breeding in plants and animals had led to development of fit species and Galton wanted to apply the same technique to the human population. He believed that fit or desirable traits can be inherited and genetically determined. Galton defined his research to better the population of human beings as ’eugenics’.
Option (b) is correct. Archibald Garrod coined the term ‘Inborn errors of Metabolism’. This term refers to diseases or disorders of metabolism that can be inherited. He hypothesized that enzymes are products of a single gene, and consequent studies led to the formation of the well known ‘one gene one enzyme’ hypothesis. The research undertaken by Garrod was published in the form of text called ‘Inborn errors of Metabolism’.
Option (c) is incorrect. Murray Barr was a distinguished scientist who discovered Barr bodies. Barr bodies are inactivated X chromosomes in a cell. Females have one Barr body in a cell while males lack Barr bodies (because they XY individuals). Presence of more than one Barr body in females or males, can lead to genetic disorders like Klinefelter syndrome.

Option B is the correct answer.

Note: Inborn errors of Metabolism was coined by Archibald Garrod. He studied the nature of inheritance of alkaptonuria – a genetic disorder caused due to the mutation of a specific gene. Typically, these disorders are caused due to erroneous carbohydrate, protein and amino acid metabolism.