The table below gives two genotypes indicating various mutations in the components of the lac operon and lacI gene. A “-” indicates that the component is no longer functional, a ” ” indicates the component is functioning normally. If a bacterial cell carried the genetic mutations indicated in the genotypes below, would fully functional beta-galactosidase (encoded by lacZ) be produced IN THE PRESENCE OF LACTOSE and allow the cell to use lactose as an energy source?
Provide the following:
1) a “yes” or “no” answer about whether functional beta-galactosidase is made,
2) a brief description of the normal function of the “-” component when it is not mutated, and
3) an explanation for why you said “yes” or “no”.
Question
Genotype: PI- Plac O Z Y A
Would functional beta-galactosidase be produced? Explain your answer!