A Negative Structural Mutation in the NorA Gene in Staphylococcus

Question

A negative structural mutation in the norA gene in Staphylococcus aureus could have the effect of
A) decreased protein synthesis.
B) increased bacterial conjugation.
C) decreased drug resistance.
D) increased uptake of beta-lactams.
E) decreased rate of clonal division.

Accepted Answer

The norA gene codes for a multi-drug efflux pump that is responsible for removing antibiotics and other toxins from the cell. A negative structural mutation in the norA gene would likely result in decreased or impaired drug resistance, as the efflux pump would no longer function properly.