Bioluminescence is controlled by the gene regulatory mechanism called quorum sensing, wherein the
A) depletion of oxygen is detected by an inducer molecule which activates transcription of the lux operon (genes luxCDABE).
B) accumulation of an inducer molecule activates transcription of the lux operon (genes luxCDABE).
C) absence of light activates an inducer molecule which activates transcription of the lux operon (genes luxCDABE).
D) host tissues produce an autoinducer molecule which activates transcription of the lux operon (genes luxCDABE).

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Quorum sensing is a gene regulatory mechanism by which bacteria can coordinate their behavior based on the density of their population. It involves the production and detection of small signaling molecules called autoinducers. In the case of bioluminescence, the lux operon (genes luxCDABE) is activated by the accumulation of an autoinducer called AHL (acyl-homoserine lactone), which is produced and released by the bacteria. As the bacterial population grows, AHL levels increase to a concentration that activates the transcription of the lux genes, leading to bioluminescence.

Bioluminescence Is Controlled by the Gene Regulatory Mechanism Called Quorum