Gene Expression Regulation (Overview)

GENE EXPRESSION REGULATION OVERVIEW

Allows organisms to be more efficient with resources and to adapt to the environment
Important for cell differentiation (which results in many different cell types)

STEPS REGULATION OCCURS

When and how often a gene is transcribed
Only point where the cell will not synthesize unneeded intermediates, thereby wasting resources

2) RNA Processing Control

3) RNA Transport and Localization Control

Cells select which mRNAs are exported to the cytoplasm and where they are localized to

4) Translational Control

5) mRNA Degradation Control

Cells can destabilize specific mRNAs in the cytoplasm to limit protein production

6) Protein Activity Control

Cells can selectively activate, inactivate, localize or degrade proteins after they have been synthesized