Explain what we mean by “control of gene expression.” How does when, where, why fit into the control of gene expression?

Answer 1

Hi Maria,

Genes are sections of DNA. Each gene contains instructions for your cells to perform a certain function, such as making a protein. When a gene is 'on', the instructions are sent to your cells, and the function is performed. Gene expression is turning a gene 'on' and 'off'.

Why: Your cells need to perform different functions at different times. If every gene was always turned 'on', or expressed, your cells would waste a lot of energy performing useless functions.

When: As a result, each gene is only 'turned on', or expressed, when needed. Genes can also be 'turned off', or not expressed, when needed.

Where: Gene expression is typically controlled during transcription.