How might mutations in the dnaQ sequence, whose enzyme is involved in DNA proofreading, be beneficial for a microbe in a highly competitive and dynamic community?

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: Mutations in dnaQ would result in an increase in mutation rate; however unrepaired mutations are not always lethal. In this situation, mutagenesis might be thought of as creating diversity of a microbe's genome. Genetic diversity might create a genotype different enough that a new phenotype arises. If for example the new phenotype is an ability to catabolize a particular compound, this could provide the cell with the ability to survive using a different substrate for energy when others are limited. Also, if a certain cell surface component is the target for phage infection and lysis, a different gene sequence could modify the surface component to perhaps enhance survivability in the environment.

Biology & Microbiology

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When carbon dioxide is absorbed into water, the solution becomes more

(a) acidic. (b) basic. (c) warm. (d) red.

Biology & Microbiology

The Cohesion-Tension Theory explains the role of ________ in long-distance water transport.

A. membranes B. transpiration C. sap movement D. plasmodesmata E. surface tension

Biology & Microbiology

The mass extinction of the Permian period

A. All of the answer choices are correct. B. was caused by a long series of volcanic eruptions. C. was caused by a drop in sea level. D. was caused by a rise in global temperature. E. paved the way for the age of dinosaurs.

Biology & Microbiology

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of turtles?

a. a carapace b. jaws c. teeth d. a plastron

Biology & Microbiology