Before heading straight to gene expression and its regulation, let’s refresh the fundamentals of genes. Doing so, you will be better equipped to understand the concepts mentioned above easily and learn more about related topics with greater ease.
With that being said, let’s proceed to find out more about gene its nature, expression and regulation!
What are Genes?
Genes are DNA’s functional units, which in turn serve as the information database of cells and are found in the nucleus. All genetic instructions or genomes, which produce proteins are carried by genes.
Now, each of such genes carries a specific set of instructions which are mostly available in a coded format. This instruction is extensively used to perform a particular function towards a specific protein in an accurate manner.
Notably, these genes are copied into mRNA and subsequently changed into a chain of polypeptides, which helps to develop characteristic traits or gene expression.
What is Gene Expression?
It is the process wherein genomes are used to regulate the synthesis of protein. The protein thus synthesised is used by the body to produce cell structures. Also, it is a strictly coordinated process that enables cells to react to the changes in their environment.
It is noteworthy that the genes which convey information for the use of amino acids are called structural genes. Furthermore, this entire process has two distinct steps.
Transcription
In this particular step, RNA is produced with the aid of RNA polymerase enzymes. Consequently, the mRNA molecules are processed.
Translation
This step is more concerned with the synthesis of protein through mRNA. Through the course of action, the processing of protein molecules is initiated.
Hence, in simple words, you can say it is the process through which instructions in DNA are changed into a usable product, which is a protein in this case.
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What is Regulation of Gene Expression?
It is the process which enables cells to control when and how to regulate gene expression. However, this regulation is quite complicated, and any sort of malfunctioning can prove to be detrimental for cells leading to the occurrence of several diseases, including cancer.
Typically, the regulation of gene expression helps to conserve space and energy. Also, through it, living organisms adapt to the changes in their surroundings.
Furthermore, it is normal for each cell to have different active genes which are responsible for facilitating distinct functions. For example, liver cells are responsible for removing toxins from the bloodstream, while the neurons are responsible for transmitting signals.
On that note, let’s check out the importance of gene regulation below!
Importance of Gene Regulation
Gene expression and regulation are deemed necessary for -
Growth
Development
Existence
Differentiation
Test Your Knowledge
What are gene expression and gene regulation? Explain them in brief.
Difference Between Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Transcript
Check this image below to learn about the differences between the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
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FAQs on Gene Regulation
1. What is gene expression?
Ans. It is the process through which the data instructions contained in DNA are changed into a protein, which is responsible for specific functions.
2. What is gene regulation?
Ans. It is the process that ensures that designated genes are expressed at the right time and to the right extent. It is further responsible for helping living organisms to adjust to their surroundings.
3. What is the importance of gene regulation and expression?
Ans. In a nutshell, the gene regulation and expression are responsible for the manifestation of distinct characteristic traits, growth and development of living beings. Furthermore, they are responsible for the existence and differentiation of traits.
