30 Questions
What is the result of the addition of a nucleotide pair (base pair) to the DNA?
It leads to a shift in the reading frame when the sequence is transcribed and translated.
What is the process called when a transposon moves from one location to another in a cell's genome?
Transposition
What is the effect when a transposon jumps into a gene?
The gene is insertionally inactivated, and its function is disrupted.
What is the effect of most transposons containing transcriptional terminators?
The expression of downstream genes in the same operon will stop.
What was the main focus of Barbara McClintock's research?
Investigating the role of transposons in causing color variation in corn kernels.
What was unique about Barbara McClintock's approach to her research?
She worked long hours, 12 hours a day, 6 days a week, in a small laboratory.
How do microorganisms commonly acquire genes from other cells?
DNA-mediated transformation
What is one reason why mutants are considered useful in the context of horizontal gene transfer?
They facilitate the spread of antibiotic resistance
In horizontal gene transfer, what must happen for recipient cells to pass on the DNA to daughter cells?
DNA replication
Which mechanism of gene transfer involves DNA being transferred from one bacterial cell to another by a bacteriophage?
Transduction
Why is it necessary for donor and recipient cells to be genetically different in studying horizontal gene transfer?
To determine if new characteristics are acquired by the recipient cells
What is essential for DNA to be passed on to daughter cells after gene transfer?
Existence of replication origin
How does genetic change occur in bacteria?
Mutation and horizontal gene transfer
What is the term used to describe an organism and its daughter cells after a mutation has occurred?
Mutants
If a gene required for biosynthesis of the amino acid tryptophan is deleted, what effect would this have on the organism's growth?
The organism can only multiply if tryptophan is supplied in the growth medium
What are spontaneous mutations?
Genetic changes that occur randomly during normal cell processes
What is the typical range for the mutation rate of genes in bacteria?
10^-4 to 10^-12 per cell division
Can a mutation that has occurred in a bacterial cell ever revert back to its original, non-mutated state?
Yes, on rare occasions a mutation can change back to its original state
Why will DNA without an origin of replication not be passed on to new daughter cells?
The DNA will not be able to replicate and therefore cannot be inherited by daughter cells
What is required for a recipient cell to undergo transformation and take up DNA from the environment?
The cell must be in a specific physiological state called competence
How do some species of bacteria restrict the DNA they accept during transformation?
They only accept DNA from closely related bacteria that have characteristic nucleotide sequences
What is the significance of some species of bacteria becoming competent only under specific environmental conditions?
It highlights the ability of these cells to sense their surroundings and adjust their behavior accordingly
How does the two-component regulatory system in Bacillus subtilis activate competence genes?
It recognizes when the supply of nitrogen or carbon becomes scarce in the environment
What is the significance of DNA being integrated within a replicon of the cell?
It ensures the DNA can be replicated and passed on to new daughter cells
What is the main role of DNA Polymerase in the cell?
To replicate DNA by making a complementary strand
Which of the following is a type of RNA molecule involved in protein synthesis?
Messenger RNA (mRNA)
What is the function of the promoter in gene expression?
To bind RNA polymerase and initiate transcription
What is the main function of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in the cell?
To provide a structural and functional framework for the ribosome
Which of the following is the correct definition of a codon?
A sequence of three nucleotides that codes for a specific amino acid
What is the main purpose of the genome in a cell?
To provide instructions for building the cell's components
Test your knowledge on bacterial genetics with content sourced from 'Nester’s MICROBIOLOGY A Human Perspective' book. Learn about codons, DNA polymerase, DNA replication, genes, and more.
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