In an analysis of rII mutants, complementation testing yielded the following results: Mutants Results (+/- lysis) 1, 2 + 1, 3 + 1, 4 - 1, 5 - Predict the results of testing 2 and 3, 2 and 4, and 3 and 4 together.

Key Concepts

Complementation Testing

Complementation testing is a genetic technique used to determine whether two mutations that produce a similar phenotype are in the same gene or in different genes. If two mutants complement each other (yield a '+' result), it indicates that they are in different genes. Conversely, if they do not complement (yield a '-' result), it suggests that both mutations are in the same gene, leading to a failure in function.

rII Mutants

rII mutants are a specific class of mutations in the T4 bacteriophage that affect its ability to lyse bacterial cells. These mutants are often used in genetic studies to understand gene function and interactions. The rII region is particularly important for the virus's ability to infect and replicate within host bacteria, making it a key focus in complementation tests.

Genetic Interaction

Genetic interaction refers to the way in which different genes influence each other's expression and function. In the context of complementation testing, understanding genetic interactions helps predict the outcomes of combining different mutants. The results of these tests can reveal whether the mutations affect the same biological pathway or function, which is crucial for mapping genetic relationships.