Chapter 18, Problem 2TYK

Summary Introduction

Introduction: In genetics, an operon is the functional unit of a gene. Operon has a cluster of genes controlled by single promoter. Trp operon is a characteristic feature of many bacteria including Escherichia coli (E. coli). It is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria living in the large intestine of higher vertebrates. In E. coli, tryp operon is used for the transcription of genes responsible for the production of an amino acid tryptophan. Trp operon is an example of the negative feedback mechanism, where the presence of increased levels of tryptophan switches off the trp operon.