Question

A team of scientists splices a human gene into bacterial plasmids. The human gene codes for insulin. Then the scientists use the plasmids to transform bacteria. Their goal is to develop bacteria that will synthesize insulin.

How is it useful for the plasmids to also contain genes for antibiotic resistance?

A. The genes for antibiotic resistance increase the rate that bacteria take up the plasmids.
B. The genes for antibiotic resistance act as genetic markers for identifying the transformed bacteria.
C. The genes for antibiotic resistance help activate the gene for insulin.
D. The genes for antibiotic resistance help the transformed bacteria survive in their environment.

Answer 1

Answer: D. The genes for antibiotic resistance help the transformed bacteria survive in their environment.

Step-by-step explanation:

First and foremost, we should note that plasmids used in the delivery of DNA typically consists of genes which helps in antibiotic resistance.

Based on the question given, we should note that the genes for antibiotic resistance help the transformed bacteria survive in their environment. This is because cells that have been treated with plasmid are able to survive and grow compared to those that have not been treated with plasmid which are eventually killed by the antibiotic.