GENE EXPRESSION Meaning and
Definition
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Gene expression is the process by which the instructions encoded within a gene are read, transcribed, and translated into a functional protein or RNA molecule. It refers to the manifestation or activation of a gene's information and its subsequent conversion into a biologically active product. Gene expression is a fundamental process in living organisms, as it determines the phenotype and functionality of cells, tissues, and ultimately an entire organism.
The main steps involved in gene expression include transcription and translation. During transcription, the DNA sequence of a gene is copied into a complementary RNA molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA) through the action of an enzyme called RNA polymerase. This mRNA molecule then carries the genetic information from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where translation occurs. During translation, ribosomes and transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules decode the mRNA sequence, leading to the assembly of a specific sequence of amino acids, forming a protein.
Gene expression is tightly regulated in response to various internal and external cues, ensuring that genes are activated or deactivated at the appropriate times and in specific cell types. This regulation is crucial for normal development, growth, and maintenance of an organism. Any abnormalities in gene expression can lead to diseases, including cancers and genetic disorders.
In summary, gene expression refers to the process by which the information stored in a gene is utilized to synthesize functional molecules such as proteins and RNA, resulting in the observable traits and characteristics of an organism.
Common Misspellings for GENE EXPRESSION
- fene expression
- vene expression
- bene expression
- hene expression
- yene expression
- tene expression
- gwne expression
- gsne expression
- gdne expression
- grne expression
- g4ne expression
- g3ne expression
- gebe expression
- geme expression
- geje expression
- gehe expression
- genw expression
- gens expression
- gend expression
Etymology of GENE EXPRESSION
The term "gene expression" consists of two words: "gene" and "expression".
The word "gene" dates back to 1909, coined by Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen, derived from the German word "gen", which means a unit of hereditary information. Johannsen used this term to refer to the fundamental unit of heredity.
The word "expression" has its roots in the Latin word "expressio", which means a pressing out or representation. In English, the word began to be used in the 14th century, referring to the act of expressing one's thoughts or feelings. In relation to genetics and biology, "expression" refers to the process by which genetic information (genes) is used to synthesize proteins or functional molecules.
Thus, the term "gene expression" combines the concept of genes as units of hereditary information with the process of representing or synthesizing proteins based on this information.
