Multiple Choice
In the context of eukaryotic gene regulation, what is the term for a gene that is expressed continuously at relatively constant levels in most cell types because it encodes basic cellular functions?
13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes
Overview of Eukaryotic Gene Regulation
Multiple Choice
In eukaryotic gene regulation, what is the most accurate description of what a gene does when it has been “turned on”?
A
It is transcribed to produce an RNA (and often translated to produce a protein), increasing the gene’s expression.
B
It permanently changes the DNA sequence of the gene to a new allele.
C
It only replicates its DNA region more frequently during S phase without changing RNA production.
D
It stops transcription so no RNA is made from that gene.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the concept of gene expression in eukaryotes. When a gene is "turned on," it means the gene is actively being expressed, which involves the process of transcription where RNA is synthesized from the DNA template.
Step 2: Recall that transcription produces RNA molecules, which can be messenger RNA (mRNA) that often serves as a template for protein synthesis during translation.
Step 3: Recognize that turning a gene on does not involve permanent changes to the DNA sequence itself; such changes would be mutations or allele changes, which are separate from gene regulation.
Step 4: Note that DNA replication during the S phase of the cell cycle is a separate process from gene expression and does not directly affect whether a gene is turned on or off.
Step 5: Conclude that when a gene is turned on, it is actively transcribed to produce RNA, and often this RNA is translated into protein, thereby increasing the gene's expression.
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