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genetic expression
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genetic expression

biology
Also known as: gene expression
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Quick Summary

Genetic expression is the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically a protein. This process involves two main stages: transcription, where DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA), and translation, where mRNA is used as a template to build a protein.1234

Not all genes are active at once; gene expression is regulated, allowing cells to respond to developmental cues and environmental changes. Different cell types express different genes, leading to their specialized structures and functions. This regulation can occur at various points, including controlling the rate of transcription, processing of RNA, and protein modification.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
5 Britannica Sources
  1. heredity - Regulation of gene expression
  2. cell - Regulation of RNA synthesis
  3. cell - RNA synthesis
  4. genetic engineering: Top Questions
  5. transcription

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