They are working with Brassica mutants with known phenotypes but unknown genotypes. We ask them to research the phenotype, hypothesize a potential cause of that phenotype, and then choose a new phenotype to screen to test that hypothesis.
For example, if they have a yellow leaf mutant, they may hypothesize it is caused by a mutation in chlorophyll biosynthesis. Then they’d research the synthesis pathway and identify consequences of improper chlorophyll biosynthesis and choose one to measure.
If their new phenotype is also affected, they have some evidence that their identified pathway was affected. If not, back to the drawing board.
All of these mutants were selected based on phenotype, so there is no “correct” answer, and all results build toward characterizing them genetically.
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All of these mutants were selected based on phenotype, so there is no “correct” answer, and all results build toward characterizing them genetically.