Question

Write a short note on gene expression.

Answer 1

Gene expression is the process in which a functional gene product is synthesized by using information from a gene. 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. The process of gene expression is used by eukaryotes, prokaryotes and by viruses. Gene regulation gives the cell control over structure and function and is the basis for cellular differentiation, morphogenesis and the versatility and adaptability of any organism. Regulation of gene expression is critical to an organism's development. Several steps in the gene expression process may be modulated, including the transcription, RNA splicing, translation, and post-translational modification of a protein.

The various steps in gene expression are as follows:

1) Transcription

2) RNA processing

3) Non-coding RNA maturation

4) RNA export

5) Translation

6) Folding

7) Translocation

8) Protein transport