Question:

In the {lac} operon, the {z} gene codes for :

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Remember the order Z-Y-A and their enzymes B-P-T: \textbf{Z} $\rightarrow$ \textbf{B}eta-gal, \textbf{Y} $\rightarrow$ \textbf{P}ermease, \textbf{A} $\rightarrow$ \textbf{T}ransacetylase.
Updated On: May 3, 2026
  • Permease
  • Repressor
  • Transacetylase
  • Beta-galactosidase
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The lac operon in E. coli is a polycistronic structural gene regulated by a common promoter and regulatory genes. The three structural genes code for specific enzymes required for lactose metabolism:
z gene: Codes for beta-galactosidase ($\beta$-gal), which is primarily responsible for the hydrolysis of the disaccharide lactose into its monomeric units, galactose and glucose.
y gene: Codes for permease, which increases the permeability of the cell to $\beta$-galactosides (lactose).
a gene: Codes for transacetylase.
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