Gene Expression Regulation pt2

Flashcards covering key concepts from gene expression regulation, including differential gene expression, histone modifications, and transcription initiation.

Differential Gene Expression

All cells in multicellular organisms have the same DNA but express different sets of genes based on available transcription factors.

Histone Acetylation

The process where acetyl groups attach to histone tails, neutralizing their positive charge, loosening DNA-histone interaction, and promoting transcription.

DNA Methylation

The addition of a methyl group to DNA bases that blocks access to transcription factors, resulting in low or no transcription.

Proximal Control Elements

Regulatory elements located close to the promoter that help regulate nearby genes.

Distal Control Elements

Also known as enhancers, these are located far upstream of the gene but interact with the promoter region through DNA bending.

Transcription Factors

Proteins that bind to the promoter and assist in initiating transcription.

Mediator Proteins

Proteins that form a bridge between transcription factors and RNA polymerase to help assemble the transcription initiation complex.

Activators

Proteins that bind to enhancer regions and work to increase transcription of specific genes.

Alternative Splicing

A process post-transcription where exons can be spliced together in different ways, leading to diverse mRNA transcripts and proteins from the same gene.