Question

The first step in catabolism of lactose by the bacteria is ________________ of a linkage bond.

(a) hydrolysis

(b) oxidation

(c) reduction

(d) alkylation

I have been asked this question in an interview for job.

This intriguing question originated from Gene Expression Control in chapter Control of Gene Expression of Cell Biology

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) hydrolysis

In the catabolism of lactose by bacteria, the first step is the hydrolysis of the glycosidic bond between glucose and galactose in lactose. This is catalyzed by the enzyme β-galactosidase. Hydrolysis breaks the bond, splitting lactose into its constituent sugars, glucose and galactose, which can then be metabolized further by the bacteria.