Gene Expression

Gene Expression is the process by which information from a gene is used in the synthesis of a functional gene product. These products are often proteins, but in non-protein coding genes such as transfer RNA (tRNA) or small nuclear RNA (snRNA) genes, the product is a functional RNA.

Overview

The process of gene expression involves two main stages:

• Transcription: the production of messenger RNA (mRNA) from the DNA.
• Translation: the production of protein from the mRNA.

The process of gene expression is used by all known life - eukaryotes (including multicellular organisms), prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea), and utilized by viruses - to generate the macromolecular machinery for life.

Regulation of Gene Expression

The regulation of gene expression conserves energy and space. It would require a significant amount of energy for an organism to express every gene at all times, so it is beneficial to regulate gene expression. This regulation is accomplished by the cellular machinery, the disruption of which can lead to a multitude of human diseases, including cancer.

Gene Expression and Disease

Changes in the expression of certain genes can lead to diseases. For example, in some cancers, abnormal proteins are made that stimulate uncontrolled cell growth.

See Also

• Gene
• Protein
• Transcription (genetics)
• Translation (biology)
• Cancer

Gene Expression Resources
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