How are bacteria able to change their patterns of protein synthesis so quickly in response to environmental changes?
A) mRNAs that are produced are short-lived and degraded within a few minutes of being synthesised.
B) mRNA have long lifespans, allowing the bacteria to use them many times for translation.
C) mRNA is stored for later use.
D) Operons are activated in the presence of transcription factors.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacteria are able to quickly adapt to changing environments through the regulation of gene expression. mRNA molecules that are produced in response to environmental changes are short-lived, and their degradation allows for rapid adjustment of protein synthesis. This mechanism ensures that the bacterium produces only the proteins that are necessary for survival in the current environment.

How Are Bacteria Able to Change Their Patterns of Protein