Chapter 11, Problem 1QC

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The consequences of mutation in $\text{FtsZ}$ that disrupts the function of the protein it encodes.

Introduction:

Cell division is a method by which a single cell divides into two daughter cells. The two daughter cells, each receive the genetic material present in the single parent cell. This duplication of single cell into two occurs by a series of stages that is the life cycle of every single cell. The life cycle of every single cell begins and ends with cell division.

Explanation of Solution

The prokaryotic cells, like bacteria and archaea, divide by a process called binary fission. In this type of cell division, the cell replicates its genetic material, and as a replication proceeds further the cell increases in size symmetrically. Cell division starts with the formation of new membrane and cell wall material at the midpoint of the parental cell and divides into two daughter cells. Each daughter cell receives one copy of parent DNA.

The genes called $\text{FtsZ}$ play a very important role in binary fission, which is a process of bacterial cell division. This gene encodes many copies of genes that assemble together and form a circular structure at the site of constriction from where the new cell wall develops between the two daughter cells.

If any mutation occurs in the gene $\text{FtsZ}$, it would result in the disruption of cell division. It will block the cell division, as its protein would not be able to assemble its gene at the site of cell division and the parent cell would not divide into two daughter cells.

Conclusion

Mutation in the $\text{FtsZ}$ gene would block the process of cell division.