Regulation of the lac operon in E. coli (see Chapter 16) and regulation of the GAL system in yeast are analogous in that they both serve to adapt cells to growth on different carbon sources. However, the transcriptional changes are accomplished very differently. Consider the conceptual similarities and differences as you address the following.
Compare and contrast how these two systems are negatively regulated such that they are downregulated in the presence of glucose.
Table of contents
- 1. Introduction to Genetics51m
- 2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
- 3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
- 4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
- 5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
- 6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
- 7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
- 8. DNA Replication1h 10m
- 9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
- 10. Transcription1h 0m
- 11. Translation58m
- 12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
- 13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
- 14. Genetic Control of Development44m
- 15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
- 16. Transposable Elements47m
- 17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
- 18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- 19. Cancer Genetics29m
- 20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
- 21. Population Genetics50m
- 22. Evolutionary Genetics29m
13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes
GAL Regulation
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
The GAL gene system is activated in which of the following conditions?
A
Absence of galactose
B
Presence of galactose
C
Absence of glucose
D
Presence of glucose

1
Understand the role of the GAL gene system: The GAL gene system in yeast is responsible for the metabolism of galactose. It is regulated by the presence or absence of galactose and glucose in the environment.
Identify the conditions that activate the GAL gene system: The GAL genes are activated in the presence of galactose. This is because galactose acts as an inducer, binding to the repressor protein and allowing transcription of the GAL genes.
Consider the role of glucose: Glucose is a preferred energy source for yeast. When glucose is present, it represses the GAL gene system through a mechanism known as catabolite repression. This means that the presence of glucose will inhibit the activation of the GAL genes, even if galactose is present.
Analyze the given options: The GAL gene system is not activated in the absence of galactose because there is no inducer to initiate transcription. It is also not activated in the presence of glucose due to catabolite repression.
Conclude with the correct condition: The GAL gene system is activated in the presence of galactose and the absence of glucose, as this allows for the induction of the GAL genes without the inhibitory effect of glucose.
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