Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given :
You have created a fusion between trp operon and lac operon which encodes the enzymes for tryptophan biosynthesis, under the regulatory control of the lac operator. Under which of the following conditions will tryptophan synthase be induced in the strain that carries the chimeric operator fused operons?

• A. Only when both lactose and glucose are absent.
• B. Only when both lactose and glucose are present.
• C. Only when lactose is absent and glucose is present.
• D. Only when lactose is present and glucose is absent.

Answer 1

The correct option is D Only when lactose is present and glucose is absent.

As the chimeric operon is under control of operator gene of lac operon, it will be functional only in the conditions required for lac operon to be functional. In lac operon lactose function as inducer hence its presence in medium is essential for proper functioning while glucose inhibits its function. So, the chimeric operon will produce tryptophan only when lactose is present and glucose is absent in the medium.

So, the correct answer is 'Only when lactose is present and glucose is absent.'.