The trp operon in E.coli is regulated in such a manner as to allow expression of the genes only when cellular levels of tryptophan are low.When tryptophan levels are adequate,the secondary structure of the mRNA halts translation.This form of regulation is known as
A)attenuation.
B)transcriptional regulation.
C)positive regulatory control.
D)allosteric inhibition.
E)induction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Attenuation is a regulatory mechanism in bacteria where the synthesis of an mRNA molecule is prematurely terminated, depending on the concentration of a specific amino acid, in this case, tryptophan. When tryptophan levels are adequate, the formation of a specific secondary structure in the mRNA of the trp operon prevents further translation, effectively regulating the expression of genes involved in tryptophan synthesis.

The Trp Operon in E