[Campbell Biology P.706] In Table 2, for the gene encoding protein ID 298599, the Douglas Fi... | Practice Question

In Table 2, for the gene encoding protein ID 298599, the Douglas Fir ECM/FLM Ratio is 22,877. What does this value most accurately signify?

  • A: The gene is expressed 22,877 times more in free-living mycelium than in ectomycorrhizal mycelium in association with Douglas Fir.
  • B: The protein product of this gene is 22,877 times larger when Laccaria bicolor is in ectomycorrhizal association with Douglas Fir.
  • C: The transcription level of this gene is 22,877 times higher when Laccaria bicolor forms ectomycorrhizae with Douglas Fir roots compared to its free-living state.
  • D: There are 22,877 copies of this gene in the Laccaria bicolor genome when associated with Douglas Fir.

Explanation

The ECM/FLM ratio indicates the relative expression level of a gene in the ectomycorrhizal mycelium ECM compared to the free-living mycelium FLM . A ratio of 22,877 means the gene's transcription is 22,877 times higher when the fungus is in a symbiotic relationship with Douglas Fir roots. This is explicitly stated in the problem description as 'most increased "upregulated" '.