What is the process of gene expression?

The process of gene expression refers specifically to the synthesis of proteins from genes. This is a fundamental biological process where the information encoded in a gene is converted into a functional product, typically a protein. Gene expression involves two main steps: transcription and translation.

During transcription, the DNA sequence of a gene is copied to produce messenger RNA (mRNA), which serves as the template for the next step. In translation, ribosomes read the mRNA and assemble the corresponding amino acids to form a protein. This protein can then carry out various functions in the cell, including acting as enzymes, signaling molecules, or structural components.

This process is essential because proteins are responsible for the characteristics of cells and organisms and play crucial roles in maintaining life. Understanding gene expression is vital for many areas in biomedical science, including genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology, as it underpins how genetic information influences biological activities and organismal traits.