Question

A reporter gene is an experimentally engineered regulatory DNA sequence from a gene of interest that has been fused to a gene that encodes a protein that is easily observed experimentally. Why is this approach useful?

A. It can provide information as to where a gene is expressed.

B. It can provide information as to when a gene is expressed.

C. It provides information into where and when a gene is expressed.

D. It provides information on the binding interactions of the gene product.

Answer 1

The use of reporter genes is useful because it can provide information about the spatial and temporal patterns of gene expression, aiding in the study of gene regulation and function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The use of reporter genes is a valuable biotechnological approach in the study of gene expression. These reporter genes are linked to genes of interest to create an observable phenotype, such as color change or fluorescence, allowing researchers to track when and where a gene is expressed. This method is particularly useful because it can provide information regarding the spatial and temporal expression of the gene in question, thus option C is the correct answer: 'It provides information into where and when a gene is expressed.' Moreover, reporter genes such as lacZ and green fluorescent protein (GFP) are commonly employed to visualize gene expression patterns in various types of cells and organisms.

Understanding the regulation of gene expression is crucial for comprehending developmental processes and the onset of certain diseases like cancer. The regulatory DNA sequences and the role of regulatory proteins, such as transcription factors, can influence when and how much RNA is produced and, thus, how genes are expressed. By incorporating reporter genes into these studies, scientists can gain significant insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying gene function.