Question 10 of 12intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer2 marks

Why the replication of single copy plasmid called stringent replication?

Correct Answer

The replication of single-copy plasmids is called stringent replication because their replication and segregation are under the same control as the replication of the bacterial chromosomal DNA.

Due to this strict regulation, the copy number of these plasmids is restricted to only one or few copies per cell. This mechanism ensures that the plasmid does not replicate freely, unlike relaxed replication seen in high-copy plasmids, which are free from chromosomal control and allow for many copies per cell.

Exercise: EXERCISES | Q: 10 | (Page 17)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The textbook context explicitly states that for low or single-copy plasmids, replication and segregation are under the same control as the bacterial chromosomal DNA. Because of this strict regulatory control, the copy number is restricted to only one or few copies per cell, and this specific type of replication is termed 'stringent replication'. This distinguishes it from relaxed replication found in multi-copy plasmids.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Identify that single-copy plasmids are controlled by the bacterial chromosomal DNA replication.

  2. Step 2: Note that this control restricts the copy number to one or few copies per cell.

  3. Step 3: Conclude that this strict control is the reason for the term 'stringent replication'.

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