Prokaryote Gene Expression & Regulation Flashcards
1
Q
Where is genetic material found in prokaryotes ?
A
- it’s found free in the cytoplasm in a region Called the nucleoid
2
Q
What is a genophore?
A
the genetic material of a prokaryote which consists of a single chromosome consisting of circular DNA molecule
3
Q
What does it mean that the DNA of a prokaryotic cell is naked?
A
it isn’t associated with proteins for additional packaging
4
Q
Define a plasmid
A
Small, extrachromosomal DNA molecule within a cell that is physically separated from chromosomal DNA
5
Q
Describe some properties of plasmids
A
- can replicate independently
- typically contain additional genes that may be useful
- considered replicons
6
Q
What is a replicon ?
A
Units of DNA capable of replication autonomously within a suitable host
7
Q
Describe bacterial gene expression
A
- not all genes are expressed at all times in all situations
- gene expression is often linked to metabolic need of the cell
8
Q
What is an operon ?
A
- proteins with related functions tend to be organised in clusters, and are often under coordinated control –> these clusters are called operons
