What does gene expression involve?

Gene expression is a fundamental biological process where the information encoded in a gene is utilized to direct the production of proteins. This process begins with transcription, where the DNA sequence of a gene is copied to produce messenger RNA (mRNA). Following transcription, the mRNA is translated into a specific protein at the ribosomes, using the genetic information to determine the sequence of amino acids. This is crucial because proteins perform a vast array of functions in living organisms, including acting as enzymes, structural components, and signaling molecules, among others.

Understanding gene expression is essential because it illustrates how genes dictate cellular functions and traits. Each gene can be expressed at different levels, depending on various factors such as the type of cell, developmental stage, and environmental signals, which further emphasizes the importance of this process in regulating biological activities.