Question

Under conditions of glucose abundance and no lactose (resulting in low cAMP), what cellular processes or responses are affected? Explain the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways associated with these conditions.

Answer 1

Under conditions of glucose abundance and no lactose, the expression of the Lac operon is affected, leading to decreased transcription of genes involved in lactose metabolism. The lack of lactose and low cAMP levels result in the inactivation of the Lac operon, mediated by the binding of the repressor protein and inhibition of the binding of cAMP to CAP and the promoter region of the operon.

Step-by-step explanation:

Under conditions of glucose abundance and no lactose (resulting in low cAMP), several cellular processes and responses are affected. These conditions impact the expression of the Lac operon, which is responsible for the metabolism of lactose. The lack of lactose and low cAMP levels lead to the inactivation of the Lac operon and decreased transcription of genes involved in lactose metabolism. This is mediated by the binding of the repressor protein to the operator region of the lac operon, preventing the initiation of transcription. Furthermore, the binding of cAMP to the catabolite gene activator protein (CAP) and the promoter region of the lac operon is inhibited, resulting in reduced binding of RNA polymerase and transcription initiation.