Multiple Choice
Which of the following describes an arrangement of genes consisting of an operator, promoter, and structural genes that regulate lactose metabolism in E. coli?
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12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes
Lac Operon
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In the lac operon, the product of the structural gene lacZ is capable of ________.
A
transporting lactose across the cell membrane
B
binding to the operator to inhibit transcription
C
synthesizing cyclic AMP
D
hydrolyzing lactose into glucose and galactose
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the structural genes of the lac operon: lacZ, lacY, and lacA. Each gene encodes a different protein with a specific function related to lactose metabolism.
Recall that lacZ encodes the enzyme β-galactosidase, which is responsible for breaking down lactose into simpler sugars.
Understand the function of β-galactosidase: it hydrolyzes lactose into glucose and galactose, which the cell can then use as energy sources.
Differentiate the roles of other lac operon components: lacY encodes permease, which transports lactose into the cell, and the lac repressor protein binds the operator to inhibit transcription.
Conclude that the product of lacZ is not involved in transport or regulation but specifically in hydrolyzing lactose into glucose and galactose.
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