Q4. Eukaryotic genes can be introduced into bacteria by recombinant DNA techniqu
ID: 259412 • Letter: Q
Question
Q4. Eukaryotic genes can be introduced into bacteria by recombinant DNA techniques. If the introduced gene encodes a protein that is also found in bacteria—for example, a universally used glycolysis enzyme—then, expression of the eukaryotic gene may produce a protein that
functions in the bacterial cell.
The mouse gene for a glycolysis enzyme is introduced (via recombinant DNA technology on a plasmid) into an E. coli cell that has a mutant gene for the bacterial version of the same enzyme.
However the mouse enzyme is unable to restore the cell’s ability to perform glycolysis: even though the eukaryotic protein structurally and functionally is the same as the bacterial protein.
Provide two possible reasons why this experiment did not work. [2pts]
Provide a solution to overcome one of the problems you suggest. [1pt]
Explanation / Answer
Please find the answers below:
Answer 1: According to the information, the mouse gene has been restored in the bacteria but a functional protein has not been obtained. The possible reasons behind it are:
Answer 2: As a possible solution to the problems, the target gene must be initially processed to remove all the introns. Secondarily, the polypeptide must be subjected to in vitro glycosylation for activation of the proteins.
Related Questions
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.