Final Answer:
Mutations in recBCD diminish genetic recombination by approximately 100-fold.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recBCD pathway is crucial for genetic recombination in bacteria. It involves the recognition and processing of double-stranded DNA breaks. Mutations in the recBCD genes can significantly impact this process. The statement "diminish genetic recombination by approximately 100-fold" implies a severe reduction in the efficiency of genetic recombination in the presence of these mutations.
RecBCD is involved in the unwinding and processing of DNA during recombination events. Mutations in recBCD can disrupt these processes, leading to a substantial reduction in the frequency of successful genetic recombination events. The term "100-fold" emphasizes the magnitude of this reduction, indicating a drastic decrease in the ability of the recBCD pathway to facilitate genetic recombination.