The fact that most segmentation genes code for ____ indicates that these protein products are ____ that regulate the expression of other genes.

A) homeobox genes; genetic switches
B) transcription factors; genetic switches
C) transcription factors; inducers
D) maternal effect genes; protein switches
E) hormones; signaling molecules

Transcription Factors

Proteins involved in the process of converting, or transcribing, DNA into RNA, playing critical roles in regulating gene expression.

Segmentation Genes

In Drosophila, genes transcribed in the embryo that are responsible for generating a repeating pattern of body segments within the embryo and adult fly.

Genetic Switches

Genetic switches are molecular mechanisms that can activate or deactivate genes, thereby controlling patterns of gene expression.