5 Questions
- What were the three basic questions addressed by Seymour Benzer's experiments on the T4 phage rII locus from 1953-62?
The three basic questions addressed by Benzer's experiments were: 1) What is the basic element of structure? 2) What is the basic element of change? 3) What is the basic element of function.
- How did Benzer conduct the deletion mapping of rII mutants, and what was the significance of this approach?
Benzer conducted the deletion mapping by first mapping 7 large deletion mutants against each other and against 47 smaller deletions. This approach saved time by avoiding testing every mutant against each other, and it allowed the localization of point mutations to specific regions.
- What was the mutant phenotype of the rII mutants in the T4 phage, and how was recombination frequency calculated in Benzer's experiments?
The rII mutant phenotype exhibited differences in plaque morphology and host range. Recombination frequency was calculated as 2x (wild type) / total phage.
- What was the key outcome of positioning the point mutations to a particular region, and how were further mapping experiments conducted?
The key outcome of positioning the point mutations to a particular region was the ability to conduct point x point crosses for mapping. Further mapping experiments involved testing the point mutations against each other to determine their positions.
- What was the link established by Benzer between the classical concept of the gene and the molecular concept of the gene, and why was it significant?
Benzer established a link between the classical concept of the gene and the molecular concept of the gene through the fine structure mapping of T4 phage rII locus. This was significant as it bridged the gap between the traditional genetic concepts and the emerging molecular understanding of genes.
Test your knowledge of important experiments and concepts in genetics and molecular biology with this quiz. Explore the work of Seymour Benzer and the link between classical and molecular concepts of the gene.
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