Gene Expression Flashcards

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to gene expression, including transcription, translation, RNA processing, and protein synthesis.

Gene Expression

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically proteins.

Transcription

The process of converting the information in a DNA sequence into RNA, specifically mRNA.

Translation

The process of converting the information in mRNA into an amino acid sequence to form a protein.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, a molecule essential for protein synthesis that carries genetic information.

Amino Acid Chain

A sequence of amino acids linked by peptide bonds forming the basis for protein structure.

Promoter

A specific DNA sequence where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription.

Terminator

A sequence in DNA that signals the end of transcription.

Exons

Coding regions of a gene that are included in the final mRNA after splicing.

Introns

Non-coding regions of a gene that are removed during mRNA processing.

Splicing

The process of removing introns and ligating exons together in the formation of mature mRNA.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that specifies a particular amino acid in a protein.

Polypeptide

A chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds, which folds into a functional protein.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)

A type of RNA that combines with proteins to form ribosomes.

Transfer RNA (tRNA)

A type of RNA that transports amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.

Post-translational Modification

Chemical modifications that occur to a protein after it has been synthesized, affecting its activity and function.

Alternative Splicing

A regulated process during gene expression that results in a single gene coding for multiple proteins.

Proteome

The entire set of proteins that can be expressed by the genetic material of an organism.

Poly-A tail

A string of adenine nucleotides added to the 3' end of mRNA that enhances stability and transportation.

5' Cap

A modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5' end of mRNA that protects mRNA from degradation.