Gene Expression (3.12)

Question 1

Explain how a stem cell can differentiate into a specialised cell

Question 2

Explain how the lac operon allows differential gene expression in prokaryotes

Answer 2

The lac operon of E. coli contains genes involved in lactose metabolism. It’s expressed only when lactose is present and glucose is absent.
Two regulators turn the operon “on” and “off” in response to lactose and glucose levels: the lac repressor and catabolite activator protein (CAP).