E. coli and many other bacteria of the human gut need to have fine- tuned regulation of gene expression in order to
A) grow.
B) metabolize any nutrient.
C) evolve.
D) replicate their DNA.
E) effectively compete for space and nutrients.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacteria in the human gut are in constant competition for space and nutrients with other bacteria and host cells. In order to effectively compete, they need to be able to regulate their gene expression to adapt to changes in the environment and be able to effectively utilize available nutrients. Therefore, the ability to effectively compete for space and nutrients is the most important reason for the fine-tuned regulation of gene expression in bacteria of the human gut.

E Coli and Many Other Bacteria of the Human Gut