Biology (11th Edition)

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 1259188132
ISBN 13: 978-1-25918-813-8

Chapter 16 - Control of Gene Expression - Figure 16.4 - Data Analysis - Page 309: 2

Answer

A mutation in the operator, where the repressor bonds, would prevent repression, no matter how functional the repressor was. Thus, gene expression for lactose metabolism would always be turned on, and the inducer would not be needed, since the repressor, which it causes to drop off DNA, would be unable to repress expression.

Work Step by Step

To understand this, consider that the normal role of the operator is to allow the repressor to bind in the absence of lactose and stop wasteful gene expression. Without binding, gene expression can proceed.
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