What would occur if the repressor of an inducible operon were mutated so it could not bind the operator? a. irreversible binding of the repressor to the promoter b. reduced transcription of the operon's genes c. buildup of a substrate for the pathway controlled by the operon d. continuous transcription of the operon's genes

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The question is asking what would happen if a mutation occurred in the repressor of an inducible operon that prevented it from binding to the operator.
2. Step 2: Recall the function of a repressor in an inducible operon. In an inducible operon, the repressor binds to the operator to prevent transcription of the operon's genes. When the repressor is removed, transcription can occur.
3. Step 3: Consider the options. Option a suggests that the repressor would bind to the promoter, but this is incorrect because the repressor binds to the operator, not the promoter. Option b suggests that transcription of the operon's genes would be reduced, but this is incorrect because the repressor prevents transcription, so if it is unable to bind, transcription should increase. Option c suggests that there would be a buildup of a substrate for the pathway controlled by the operon, but this is not directly related to the function of the repressor.
4. Step 4: Choose the correct answer. Option d suggests that there would be continuous transcription of the operon's genes. This is correct because if the repressor cannot bind to the operator, it cannot prevent transcription, so transcription would continue unabated.
5. Step 5: Review the answer. The correct answer is d. continuous transcription of the operon's genes.