Microbiology: Lac Operon

[mistiffy]

I was just wondering if anyone out there knew anything about the lactose operon? We learned about it in Micro tonight and I don't fully grasp it. I know that (OR think I know that..) the promoter region initiates transcription and the repressor is the synthesis of mRNA...Im really unsure about the operating phase though. I also thinking Im leaving off a phase but I can't remember it! My proffessor said this was going to be on our test next week, and I want to know that I understand it! :) Thanks!

[Kina21]

it does seem a little confusing and it really helps if you know how promoter/operons/inducers work before trying to grasp it.

the lac operon is basically like a switch that turns on the ability to metabolize lactose. lactose has to be present in order for this to happen.

the lac operon is an operon required for the transport and metabolism of lactose in escherichia coli and some other enteric bacteria. it consists of three adjacent structural genes, a promoter, a terminator, and an operator. the lac operon is regulated by several factors including the availability of glucose and of lactose.

sometimes seeing how it looks helps too, hope this helps :)

[Music in My Heart]

Take a look at the Wikipedia article from which Kina21 has provided some information and see if it makes sense to you. Once you read it, come back with questions about the areas that are still confusing.

It's easier to answer specific questions.

[Polska]

I think it would be helpfull if we post everything about micro in only one thread...like the micro club...just an idea

[Kina21]

it makes sense, but for those people who aren't in Micro, say they took it last semester or before, and can help, may not look there. I took Micro over the summer and rarely look at the micro board, but if I notice a micro question in the general area, I tend to look and try to help. If its on the board, we see it when we're browsing through. If you really have a question, its easier to post it under the general area to get more people to look at it and hopefully someone who knows something about it will respond. just my opinion on it...