Build a gene network! The lac operon is a set of genes which are responsible for the metabolism of lactose in some bacterial cells. Explore the effects of mutations within the lac operon by adding or removing genes from the DNA.

Sample Learning Goals

• Predict the effects on lactose metabolism when the various genes and DNA control elements are mutated (added or removed).
• Predict the effects on lactose metabolism when the concentration of lactose is changed.
• Explain the roles of LacI, LacZ, and LacY in lactose regulation.

Researchers should cite this work as follows:

• Original Source

  PhET: Interactive Simulations

  Attribution

  PhET Interactive Simulations
  University of Colorado
  https://phet.colorado.edu 

  Design Team

  John Blanco (developer)
  Kathy Perkins
  Noah Podolefsky
  George Spiegelman
  Jared Taylor

• (2018), "Gene Machine: The Lac Operon," https://qubeshub.org/resources/phetlacoperon.

  BibTex | EndNote

1. Cells
2. cellular metabolism
3. gene regulation
4. genes
5. Resources @ QUBES - Software