Section 9.4 describes the function of tRNA synthetases in attaching amino acids to tRNAs (see Figure 9.16). Suppose the tRNA synthetase responsible for attaching tryptophan to tRNA is mutated in a bacterial strain with the result that the tRNA synthetase functions at about 15% of the efficiency of the wild-type tRNA synthetase. Would formation of the 3–4 stem-loop structure in mRNA be more frequent or less frequent in the mutant strain than in the wild-type strain? Why?
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
12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes
Tryptophan Operon and Attenuation
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the name of the sequence responsible for regulating the trp operon through attenuation?
A
Leader sequence
B
Regulator sequence
C
Terminator sequence
D
Anti-terminator sequence

1
Understand the concept of the trp operon: The trp operon is a group of genes used by bacteria to regulate the production of tryptophan, an essential amino acid.
Learn about attenuation: Attenuation is a regulatory mechanism that controls gene expression by prematurely terminating transcription based on the abundance of tryptophan.
Identify the role of the leader sequence: The leader sequence is a segment of mRNA that plays a crucial role in the attenuation process by forming different secondary structures.
Differentiate between the given options: Analyze each option to determine which one is directly involved in the attenuation mechanism of the trp operon.
Conclude that the leader sequence is responsible for regulating the trp operon through attenuation, as it influences the formation of terminator or anti-terminator structures based on tryptophan levels.
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