ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON GENE EXPRESSION

What is gene expression?

The process where information in a gene is used to produce a functional product, usually a protein.

Can the environment affect gene expression?

Yes. Environmental factors can influence whether and how much a gene is expressed.

What is phenotype?

The observable characteristics of an organism.

What determines phenotype?

The interaction between genotype and the environment.

What is a genotype?

The complete set of genetic material or specific gene variants an organism inherits from its parents

What environmental factors can affect gene expression?

Temperature, Light, Nutrition/food, Chemicals, Wind , Water availability, Other environmental conditions.

How can wind affect a tree's phenotype?

Constant wind can influence how the tree grows, causing growth patterns that result in the tree growing at an angle.

Does the environment change the tree's DNA sequence?

Not necessarily. The environment can affect gene expression and phenotype without changing the DNA sequence.