Once Integrated, Phage DNA Can Remain in the Prophage State

Question

Once integrated, phage DNA can remain in the prophage state as long as
A) the bacteria is frequently plated on new media.
B) certain phage genes are excised.
C) certain phage genes are repressed.
D) bacterial repressor genes are activated.
E) bacterial repressor genes are deactivated.

Accepted Answer

The prophage state is a state in which the phage DNA is integrated into the bacterial chromosome and exists as a dormant state. This state is maintained by the repression of certain phage genes, which prevents the phage from entering the lytic cycle. Therefore, choice C is the best answer as certain phage genes need to be repressed to maintain the prophage state.