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 by my college professor while I was bunking the class.

The origin of the question is Gene Expression Control topic in division Control of Gene Expression of Cell Biology

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) hydrolysis

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