Asked by Joseph Mullenberg on Jun 25, 2024
Verified
In the prokaryotic lac operon system, a repressor remains bound to the ____ unless lactose is present.
A) operators
B) promoter
C) enhancer
D) operon
E) gene
Lac Operon
An example of gene regulation in prokaryotes, involving a group of genes that are involved in the transport and breakdown of lactose in the cell.
Repressor
A substance, often a protein, that inhibits the expression of a gene.
- Understand the architecture and purpose of an operon, incorporating the functions of promoters, operators, and repressors in the regulation of genes in prokaryotes.
Verified Answer
KM
Karina MartinezJun 30, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
The operator is the DNA sequence to which the repressor protein binds. In the absence of lactose, the repressor remains bound to the operator, preventing RNA polymerase from transcribing the genes in the operon. When lactose is present, it binds to the repressor and causes a conformational change, releasing it from the operator and allowing transcription to occur.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the architecture and purpose of an operon, incorporating the functions of promoters, operators, and repressors in the regulation of genes in prokaryotes.