Genes match distinct polypeptide subunits in proteins

Steps:

• Determine protein structure: count unique subunits for each protein.
• Protein 1: trimeric with three different chains requires 3 genes.
• Protein 2: heterodimeric with two different chains requires 2 genes.
• Protein 3: monomeric with one chain requires 1 gene.
• Match to row: 3 2 1.

Why C is correct:

• Matches the one gene per unique polypeptide rule in eukaryotic protein synthesis.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Undercounts complex protein (1 instead of 3 genes).
• B: Overcounts dimer (4 instead of 2 genes).
• D: Overcounts monomer (2 instead of 1 gene).

Final answer: C