Gene Regulation

Question 1

What is gene expression?

Answer 1

The activation of a gene resulting in the creation of its functional product

Question 2

Why does gene expression need to be regulated? 3 reasons

Answer 2

1. Prevents wasting resources by creating products the cell doesn’t need
2. Different cell types need to express different genes
3. Prevent expressing deleterious products that will harm the cell

Question 3

Why does gene expression change in prokaryotes?

Answer 3

Responding to changes in the environment

Question 4

How can nutrient availability affect gene expression in prokaryotes?

Answer 4

If the nutrient is available in the environment, the cell will not produce the biochemical enzymes to make it because it can get it from the environment. But if it isn’t there, expression of the biochemical enzymes turns on so the cell can make that nutrient

Question 5

Why does gene expression change in eukaryotes?

Answer 5

Tissue specific requirements in multicellular eukaryotes

Question 6

What happens when genes are expressed in the wrong tissues in eukaryotes?

Answer 6

Often causes disease

Question 7

Why is it so critical that gene expression occurs correctly in development?

Answer 7

Some genes are only expressed in embryos and not in adults. It is critical that they are expressed in the correct place at the correct time, otherwise abnormal development results

Question 8

What are 5 places that gene expression can be regulated?

Answer 8

Transcription, RNA processing, RNA transport, translation, and protein activity