📚 Topic Summary
Regulation of gene expression is the process by which cells control the timing, location, and amount of protein produced. This regulation is crucial for cell differentiation, development, and responding to environmental changes. Different mechanisms, such as transcriptional control, RNA processing, and translational regulation, ensure that genes are expressed only when and where they are needed. Think of it like a volume control for your genes!
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match each term with its correct definition:
- Term: Promoter
- Term: Enhancer
- Term: Repressor
- Term: Activator
- Term: Transcription Factor
Definitions:
- A protein that binds to DNA and inhibits gene transcription.
- A DNA sequence that increases gene transcription.
- A protein that binds to DNA and increases gene transcription.
- A DNA sequence where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription.
- A protein that binds to DNA and influences gene expression.
(Match the numbers to the correct terms. Example: 1-4, 2-2, etc.)
🧬 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided below:
In prokaryotes, gene expression is often regulated by operons. An operon consists of a(n) ______ , a(n) ______, and one or more structural genes. The lac operon is an example of a(n) ______ operon, meaning it is usually turned off but can be turned on in the presence of ______. In contrast, the trp operon is a(n) ______ operon, meaning it is usually turned on but can be turned off in the presence of ______.
Word Bank: repressible, inducer, operator, promoter, inducible, tryptophan
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Describe how epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation, can influence gene expression. Provide a specific example of how these modifications can impact cell differentiation or development.