Suppose an experimenter becomes proficient with a technique that allows her to move DNA sequences within a prokaryotic genome.
-If she moves the promoter for the lac operon to the region between the beta galactosidase gene and the permease gene, which of the following would be likely?
A) Three structural genes will no longer be expressed.
B) RNA polymerase will no longer transcribe permease.
C) The operon will no longer be inducible.
D) Beta galactosidase will be produced.
E) The cell will continue to metabolize but more slowly.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Moving the promoter for the lac operon between the beta galactosidase gene and the permease gene would result in the expression of the beta galactosidase gene, as it will now be located upstream of the promoter. The proximity to the permease gene may also enhance the efficiency of lactose transport into the cell. Therefore, Option D is the most likely outcome. Option A is incorrect because the structural genes are still present, and Option B is incorrect because the permease gene is still present and can be transcribed by RNA polymerase. Option C is also incorrect because the lac operon will still be inducible, as the promoter has been moved but the overall operon structure is still intact. Option E is not supported by the information provided.

Suppose an Experimenter Becomes Proficient with a Technique That Allows