The lactose (lac) operon in E. coli helps the bacteria break down lactose into glucose, which can be used for energy. When there is no lactose present, a protein called the repressor binds to a region called the operator, blocking RNA polymerase from attaching to the operon. This prevents transcription, which means the genes needed to break down lactose are not made. When lactose is present, it binds to the repressor, causing it to change shape and leave the operator. This allows RNA polymerase to bind and transcribe the genes, enabling the bacteria to utilize lactose.
The lactose (lac) operon in E. coli is a gene that helps break down lactose in the cell. If there is no lactose present, the operon is repressed. In 4-5 sentences, explain how the lac operon is used and repressed in cells. Use the following words in your response: operon, operator, repressor, RNA polymerase, and transcribe/transcription. Please make your answer simple, coherent, and intended for 9th grade.
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