Ch. 8 Gene Expression

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to gene expression, differentiation, and the regulatory mechanisms involved in the processes.

Gene Expression

The complex process by which cells selectively direct the synthesis of proteins and RNA.

Cell Differentiation

The process by which different cells express different genes, leading to the development of distinct cell types.

Transcription Factors

Proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences and control transcription by switching genes on or off.

Activator

A transcription regulator that helps RNA polymerase bind to the promoter to initiate transcription.

Repressor

A transcription regulator that blocks RNA polymerase from binding to the promoter.

Operon

A cluster of genes transcribed as a single mRNA molecule, often regulated together.

Lac Operon

A genetic system in E. coli responsible for the metabolism of lactose, controlled by specific regulatory proteins.

Enhancer Sites

DNA sequences that enhance the rate of transcription when bound by transcription activators.

Chromatin Remodeling Complex

A group of proteins that modify chromatin structure to increase transcription efficiency.

RNA Polymerase

The enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from the DNA template during transcription.

DNA Looping

A mechanism that brings distant regulatory elements, like enhancers, into proximity to the promoter.

Eukaryotic Gene Regulation

The control of gene expression in eukaryotes involves a variety of complex mechanisms that can occur at multiple steps of gene expression.

Tryptophan Synthesis

A biosynthetic process in bacteria that is regulated by the availability of the amino acid tryptophan, involving a repressor protein.

Transcriptional Control

Regulation of gene expression that occurs during the transcription phase.

Post-transcriptional Control

Regulation that occurs after transcription, including RNA processing and degradation.