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Multiple Choice
In the context of acids and bases, which molecule prevents the lac genes in the DNA of E. coli from being expressed most of the time?
A
Glucose
B
Lactose
C
Allolactose
D
Repressor protein
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the lac operon in E. coli: The lac operon is a set of genes responsible for the metabolism of lactose in E. coli. It includes genes that code for enzymes like β-galactosidase, which breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
Identify the components involved in the regulation of the lac operon: The lac operon is regulated by a repressor protein, which binds to the operator region of the operon, preventing transcription of the lac genes.
Explore the function of the repressor protein: The repressor protein is produced by the lacI gene and binds to the operator region of the lac operon, blocking RNA polymerase from transcribing the lac genes, thus preventing their expression.
Consider the role of lactose and allolactose: When lactose is present, it is converted into allolactose, which acts as an inducer by binding to the repressor protein, causing a conformational change that reduces its affinity for the operator, allowing transcription of the lac genes.
Conclude the primary molecule preventing expression: In the absence of lactose or allolactose, the repressor protein remains bound to the operator, preventing the expression of the lac genes most of the time.