Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Biology Practice Test

Why is E. coli often used in research?

1. It has a complex cell structure

2. It reproduces slowly

3. It has a simple cell structure

4. It is difficult to culture

The correct answer is: It has a simple cell structure

E. coli is frequently utilized in research because it has a simple cell structure, making it an excellent model organism for studying basic biological processes. The simplicity of its cellular makeup allows researchers to easily manipulate its genetic material and study the effects of those manipulations. This characteristic facilitates a wide range of experiments focused on genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry. The straightforward growth requirements of E. coli also mean it can be cultured rapidly and in large quantities, which is essential for many types of experiments. The organism's relatively short generation time enables researchers to observe genetic changes across multiple generations in a compressed timeframe. This ease of use and simplicity is one of the primary reasons E. coli has become a fundamental tool in molecular biology and genetic engineering.