Resources

List by Alphabet: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

gene expression

Gene expression is the process by which information encoded in a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically a protein or RNA molecule. It is a fundamental process in biology that governs the flow of genetic information from DNA to the functional products that carry out various cellular functions. Gene expression is tightly regulated and plays a critical role in determining an organism's traits, functions, and responses to its environment.

Here are the key components and steps involved in gene expression:

1. Transcription: The first step in gene expression is transcription, where the information encoded in a specific gene's DNA sequence is copied into a complementary RNA molecule. This process is catalyzed by an enzyme called RNA polymerase. The resulting RNA molecule is known as messenger RNA (mRNA).

2. Processing of mRNA: In eukaryotic cells (organisms with a defined nucleus), the newly synthesized mRNA undergoes several modifications, including the removal of introns (non-coding regions) and the addition of a 5' cap and a 3' poly-A tail. These modifications are essential for mRNA stability and proper translation.

3. Transport of mRNA: Mature mRNA molecules are transported from the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm, where protein synthesis occurs. In prokaryotic cells (organisms without a defined nucleus), transcription and translation happen in the same cellular compartment.

4. Translation: Translation is the second major step in gene expression, where the information in mRNA is decoded to synthesize a protein. It takes place at cellular structures called ribosomes. During translation, transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules carrying specific amino acids bind to the mRNA, following the sequence of codons (three-nucleotide sequences) on the mRNA molecule. This process results in the assembly of a polypeptide chain, which will fold into a functional protein.

5. Post-translational Modifications: After translation, many proteins undergo additional modifications, such as phosphorylation, glycosylation, or cleavage, to become fully functional.

6. Protein Function: The final product of gene expression is typically a functional protein that carries out specific cellular functions. Proteins can serve as enzymes, structural components, transporters, receptors, and regulators, among other roles.

Gene expression is a highly regulated process that allows cells to respond to various signals, adapt to changing conditions, and perform their specialized functions. The regulation of gene expression is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, development, tissue differentiation, and responses to environmental cues.

Disruptions in gene expression regulation can lead to various diseases, including cancer, genetic disorders, and metabolic conditions. Understanding the mechanisms that govern gene expression is a fundamental aspect of molecular biology and has significant implications for biotechnology, medicine, and genetic research.

Related Service

• Webinar: Expression vectors: how to choose, or customize, vectors for gene & protein expression
• GenScript learning resources: PCR Troubleshooting Guide: https://www.genscript.com/pcr-troubleshooting-guide.html

Related Biology Tools

  • GenSmart™ Codon Optimization

    GenSmart Optimization is a free online tool for performing codon optimization to improve gene expression. GenScript's patented algorithms are integrated into the tool to optimize the computing capability of high-performance sequence generation.

    Learn More

  • DNA Construct Design Tool

    GenSmart™ Design is a free online DNA construct design tool developed by GenScript. GenSmart™ Design has two design modules, the Create Construct module for individual plasmid design and the Create Library module for DNA library design.

    Learn More

  • Codon Frequency Tables

    This online tool shows commonly used genetic codon frequency table in expression host organisms including Escherichia coli and other common host organisms.

    Learn More

Service and Products

Protein Expression

GenScript recombinant protein and rAb services provide high quality recombinant proteins and rAbs for a variety of downstream research applications.

Bacterial Expression

One-stop service from Sequence to Protein starting from $1600, 4 weeks.

Insect Expression

GenScript's BacuVance baculovirus expression system was developed by our in-house team of scientists for virus production and expression of recombinant proteins from baculovirus-infected insect cells.

Mammalian Transient Expression

Proprietary High Density (HD) expression system, enhance the protein yield up to 100 fold, achieve antibody titers up to 3 g/L.

Reagents for COVID-19 Research

Gram level, ready to ship RBD proteins, ACE2 assay cell lines and pseudovirus.

If you know of any terms that have been omitted from this glossary that you feel would be useful to include, please send detail to the Editorial Office at GenScript: website@genscript.com

If your term is adopted, we will send 1,000 EzCoupon points to your GenScript account.