Table of contents

1. Introduction to Microbiology3h 22m
2. Disproving Spontaneous Generation1h 18m
3. Chemical Principles of Microbiology3h 38m
4. Water1h 28m
5. Molecules of Microbiology2h 23m
6. Cell Membrane & Transport3h 28m
7. Prokaryotic Cell Structures & Functions5h 52m
8. Eukaryotic Cell Structures & Functions2h 18m
9. Microscopes2h 46m
10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth4h 36m
11. Controlling Microbial Growth4h 10m
12. Microbial Metabolism5h 16m
13. Photosynthesis2h 31m
14. DNA Replication2h 25m
15. Central Dogma & Gene Regulation7h 14m
16. Microbial Genetics4h 44m
17. Biotechnology3h 0m
18. Viruses, Viroids, & Prions4h 56m
19. Innate Immunity7h 15m
20. Adaptive Immunity7h 14m
21. Principles of Disease6h 57m

15. Central Dogma & Gene Regulation

The Trp Operon

Microbiology

15. Central Dogma & Gene Regulation

The Trp Operon

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Multiple Choice

The trp operon consists of ________ genes that encode tryptophan biosynthesis enzymes.

One.

Two.

Three.

Four.

Five.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of an operon: An operon is a cluster of genes under the control of a single promoter, which are transcribed together as a unit. This is a common feature in prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria.

Learn about the trp operon: The trp operon is a group of genes found in bacteria that are responsible for the biosynthesis of the amino acid tryptophan. It is a classic example of a repressible operon.

Identify the genes in the trp operon: The trp operon consists of five structural genes, named trpE, trpD, trpC, trpB, and trpA. Each of these genes encodes an enzyme involved in the tryptophan biosynthesis pathway.

Explore the function of each gene: Each gene in the trp operon encodes a specific enzyme that catalyzes a step in the conversion of chorismate to tryptophan. Understanding the role of each enzyme can help clarify why five genes are necessary.

Review the regulation of the trp operon: The trp operon is regulated by the availability of tryptophan. When tryptophan levels are high, the operon is repressed, preventing the transcription of these genes. This regulation ensures that the cell does not waste energy producing tryptophan when it is already abundant.