**Core Concept**
Wilson's Disease, also known as hepatolenticular degeneration, is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive accumulation of copper in the body, particularly in the liver, brain, and other vital organs. This condition is caused by impaired function of a specific enzyme responsible for copper excretion.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is the gene that encodes for the enzyme responsible for copper transport and excretion. The gene mutated in Wilson's Disease is **ATP7B**, which is involved in the transport of copper into the Golgi apparatus for incorporation into ceruloplasmin. Mutations in this gene lead to defective copper excretion, resulting in accumulation of toxic copper levels in the body.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because the gene mutated in Wilson's Disease is not ATP7A, which is involved in the transport of copper into the Golgi apparatus but has a different function and is not the primary cause of Wilson's Disease.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because the gene mutated in Wilson's Disease is not HFE, which is associated with hereditary hemochromatosis, a different condition characterized by iron overload.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because the gene mutated in Wilson's Disease is not SLC30A10, which is involved in zinc transport and is not directly related to copper metabolism.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Wilson's Disease is an autosomal recessive disorder, and individuals with a family history of the disease should be screened for mutations in the ATP7B gene. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term complications.
**Correct Answer:** C. ATP7B.
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