Question

Ralph Researcher studies transcription of his favorite gene, FAVE1, in bacteria. He notes that the wildtype strain of bacteria constantly expresses Favorite-1 Protein unless he the protein Squash-1 is also expressed. When Squash-1 is expressed, the level of Favorite-1 protein decreases. One of his mutant strains continues to express Favorite-1 Protein regardless of whether Squash-1 is present or not. What might be the regulatory mechanism of the gene coding for Favorite-1 and what is the role of Squash-1?

Answer 1

The Squash-1 protein functions as a repressor, therefore, the expression of Favorite-1 protein is mediated by negative regulation. In the transcription of FAVE-1 or the favorite gene, the Squash-1 functions as a repressor. Thus, the production of Favorite-1 protein diminishes because of the negative regulation as the binding of repressor protein with the operator gene takes place.