Which statement about minimal genomes is true?
A) Mycoplasma genitalium requires the genes for metabolizing both glucose and fructose.
B) The minimal genome for bacteria contains fewer than 200 genes.
C) The minimal genome for bacteria contains more than 1,000 genes.
D) The minimal genome can be inferred through gene knockout experiments.
E) Genes that are essential for one bacterium under one condition are essential under all conditions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The minimal genome can be inferred through gene knockout experiments. By systematically knocking out genes and observing whether the organism can survive or not, scientists can identify the essential genes that are necessary for the cell to live.

Answer: B
 The minimal genome for bacteria contains fewer than 200 genes. The minimal genome represents the smallest set of genes that an organism needs to survive and reproduce. In the case of bacteria, the minimal genome is estimated to contain between 130 and 150 genes, although some studies have suggested it could be as low as 300 genes.

The other options are not true, as Mycoplasma genitalium can survive on either glucose or fructose, the minimal genome for bacteria is not over 1,000 genes, and essential genes can vary depending on the conditions under which the bacterium is living.

Which Statement About Minimal Genomes Is True