[06] Gene Expression and Regulation Flashcards
What is gene expression?
The process by which the instructions in our DNA are converted into a functional product, such as a protein.
What are the two main steps of gene expression?
- Transcription
- Translation
What is gene regulation?
The process of turning genes on and off.
Why is gene regulation important?
It ensures that genes are expressed at the right times and in the right amount.
What is an operon?
A functioning unit of genomic DNA containing a cluster of genes under the control of a single regulatory signal or promoter.
How does gene regulation occur in prokaryotes?
It typically occurs at the transcriptional level and involves operons.
How does gene regulation occur in eukaryotes?
It’s more complex and can occur at any stage of gene expression, including chromatin modification, transcription, mRNA splicing, and post-translation.
GER - Initials
Gene Expression and Regulation
What is an inducible operon?
An operon that is usually off but can be turned on.
What is a repressible operon?
An operon that is usually on but can be turned off.
How can mutations affect gene regulation?
Mutations can disrupt normal gene regulation, leading to diseases like cancer.
What role do transcription factors play in gene regulation?
They bind to DNA and help initiate the process of transcription.
What is RNA interference (RNAi)?
A biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression, typically by causing the destruction of specific mRNA molecules.
RNAi - Initials
RNA Interference
What role does methylation play in gene regulation?
Methylation typically represses gene transcription, affecting gene expression.
What is an enhancer in gene regulation?
A sequence of DNA that promotes transcription.
What is a silencer in gene regulation?
A DNA sequence that represses the transcription of a particular gene.
How does temperature influence gene expression?
Changes in temperature can trigger certain genes to be turned on or off.
How does nutrition influence gene expression?
Certain nutrients can trigger the expression of genes related to metabolism and energy use.
How do hormones influence gene expression?
Hormones can trigger the expression of genes by binding to specific receptors.
What is a promoter in gene regulation?
A DNA sequence that the transcription enzyme attaches to begin transcription.
How does a promoter influence gene expression?
The promoter determines where transcription starts, and its interaction with certain proteins can increase or decrease the rate of transcription, influencing gene expression.
What is a TATA box?
It’s a type of promoter sequence that indicates where a genetic sequence can be read and transcribed.
What’s the role of RNA polymerase in relation to promoters?
RNA polymerase binds to the promoter to initiate transcription.
