Question

The lactose present in the growth medium of bacteria is transported to the cell by the action of

• A. Beta-galactosidase
• B. Acetylase
• C. Permease
• D. Polymerase

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The lactose present in the growth medium of bacteria is transported into the cell by the enzyme Permease. In the context of bacterial cells, such as E. coli, lactose transport is a part of the lactose operon system, which is crucial for the metabolism of lactose. The main components of this system include:

• Permease: This enzyme facilitates the movement of lactose across the bacterial cell membrane, allowing it to enter the cell. Once inside, lactose can be further metabolized.
• Beta-galactosidase: This enzyme hydrolyzes lactose into glucose and galactose.
• Acetylase: Part of the operon, though its direct role in lactose metabolism is less prominent compared to permease and beta-galactosidase.

In this scenario, Permease is the enzyme responsible for the transportation of lactose into the cell, ensuring the availability of lactose for further enzymatic processing and energy production within the bacterial cell.