What role does cAMP play in the regulation of the lac operon?

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Question: What role does cAMP play in the regulation of the lac operon?

Options:

Correct Answer: It enhances RNA polymerase binding

Solution:

cAMP enhances the binding of RNA polymerase to the promoter of the lac operon, facilitating transcription when glucose levels are low.

What role does cAMP play in the regulation of the lac operon?

What role does cAMP play in the regulation of the lac operon?

Step 1: Understand that the lac operon is a set of genes in bacteria that help them use lactose for energy.
Step 2: Know that cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a molecule that helps regulate the lac operon.
Step 3: Recognize that when glucose levels are low, cAMP levels increase.
Step 4: Realize that cAMP binds to a protein called CAP (catabolite activator protein).
Step 5: Understand that the cAMP-CAP complex helps RNA polymerase attach to the promoter of the lac operon.
Step 6: Conclude that this attachment allows the genes of the lac operon to be transcribed, enabling the bacteria to use lactose for energy.

No concepts available.