Organisms can regulate the expression of their genes in a number of ways - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 7
Organisms can regulate the expression of their genes in a number of ways.
a. Suggest why an organism regulates the expression of its genes.
One example in bacteria... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Organisms can regulate the expression of their genes in a number of ways - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Suggest why an organism regulates the expression of its genes.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Organisms, like bacteria, regulate gene expression to conserve energy and resources. Genes are only expressed when needed, such as the production of enzyme X when tryptophan levels are high. This regulation ensures that energy is not wasted on producing unnecessary proteins.
Step 2
What enzyme is prevented from functioning during this binding?
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The enzyme that is prevented from functioning during this binding is RNA polymerase. When the repressor protein binds to the operator gene, it blocks RNA polymerase's ability to transcribe the gene for enzyme X.
