The trp operon can be induced by the addition of indole propionic acid (IPA), which binds to the trp repressor but does not allow the change in conformation. Upon the addition of IPA, what will be the order of the translation of the enzymes encoded by the operon?​

Correct option is B

The correct order of translation in the trp operon is TrpE → TrpD → TrpC → TrpB → TrpA.

1. The trp operon in E. coli is a polycistronic operon, meaning multiple proteins are encoded from a single mRNA transcript.
2. Genes are transcribed and translated in the 5’ to 3’ direction, in the same order they are arranged in the operon.
3. The enzymes TrpE to TrpA are required for tryptophan biosynthesis.
4. When the operon is induced, transcription begins at the promoter, and all genes are translated in sequence.
5. IPA (Indole Propionic Acid) binds the trp repressor but fails to cause conformational change, so the repressor cannot bind to the operator.
6. As a result, transcription and translation of all structural genes proceed normally.

Additional Information:

• (a) TrpA, TrpB, TrpC, TrpD, TrpE: Incorrect — This is the reverse order of gene arrangement on the operon.
• (c) Only TrpE will be translated: Incorrect — All genes are translated unless there is premature transcription termination or a mutation affecting downstream gene expression.
• (d) Only TrpA will be translated: Incorrect — TrpA is the last gene on the operon, so it cannot be translated alone unless all upstream genes are also transcribed.