Concept explainers
Describe the process of gene expression, by which a gene affects the
To review: Gene expression affects the phenotype of an organism.
Concept introduction:
DNA is known as the blueprint of life as it controls gene expression. The genetic information of DNA is based on the nucleotide base sequences. These sequences are transcribed into mRNA triplets and are called codons. These mRNA triplet nucleotides are translated into polypeptide chains which code for specific proteins and enzymes. This is known as gene expression.
Explanation of Solution
DNA consists of genetic instructions in the form of gene sequences. It directs messenger RNA (mRNA) synthesis in the cell. During the formation of mRNA in a process which is known as transcription, each letter in the gene sequence is copied which codes for a particular amino acid. The polypeptide chain is synthesized on the basis of amino acid sequences in the reading frame. This process is known as translation. Specific proteins also known as functional gene products control the phenotypic traits in an individual such as eye color, hair color etc. These traits may also be controlled by cumulative action of many proteins.
Functional gene products are formed as a result of gene expression. There may be variation in the expression of the genes. Some genes are dominant over others which influence the appearance of the trait. For example, parents with blue eyes can have a child with brown eyes. This is because brown eye color trait is dominant over blue eye color.
Want to see more full solutions like this?
Chapter 17 Solutions
Campbell Biology, Books a la Carte Plus Mastering Biology with eText -- Access Card Package (10th Edition)
Additional Science Textbook Solutions
Biological Science (6th Edition)
HUMAN ANATOMY
Campbell Essential Biology (7th Edition)
Physics of Everyday Phenomena
Genetics: From Genes to Genomes
- What are biofertilizers and mention the significancearrow_forwardPCBs and River Otters: Otters in Washington State’s Green-Duwamish River have high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in their livers. PCBs can bind to the estrogen receptors in animals and disrupt the endocrine system of these otters. The PCBs seem to increase the estrogen to androgen ratio, skewing the ratio toward too much estrogen. How would increased estrogen affect the river otter population? Based on your reading of the materials in this unit, what factors can affect fertility in humans? Explain how each of the factors affecting human fertility that you described can disrupt the human endocrine system to affect reproduction.arrow_forwardOther than oil and alcohol, are there other liquids you could compare to water (that are liquid at room temperature)? How is water unique compared to these other liquids? What follow-up experiment would you like to do, and how would you relate it to your life?arrow_forward
- Selection of Traits What adaptations do scavengers have for locating and feeding on prey? What adaptations do predators have for capturing and consuming prey?arrow_forwardCompetition Between Species What natural processes limit populations from growing too large? What are some resources organisms can compete over in their natural habitat?arrow_forwardSpecies Interactions Explain how predators, prey and scavengers interact. Explain whether predators and scavengers are necessary or beneficial for an ecosystem.arrow_forward
- magine that you are conducting research on fruit type and seed dispersal. You submitted a paper to a peer-reviewed journal that addresses the factors that impact fruit type and seed dispersal mechanisms in plants of Central America. The editor of the journal communicates that your paper may be published if you make ‘minor revisions’ to the document. Describe two characteristics that you would expect in seeds that are dispersed by the wind. Contrast this with what you would expect for seeds that are gathered, buried or eaten by animals, and explain why they are different. (Editor’s note: Providing this information in your discussion will help readers to consider the significance of the research).arrow_forwardWhat is the difference between Uniporters, Symporters and Antiporters? Which of these are examples of active transport?arrow_forwardWhat are coupled transporters?arrow_forward
- Concepts of BiologyBiologyISBN:9781938168116Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James WisePublisher:OpenStax CollegeHuman Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Co...BiologyISBN:9781305251052Author:Michael CummingsPublisher:Cengage LearningBiology Today and Tomorrow without Physiology (Mi...BiologyISBN:9781305117396Author:Cecie Starr, Christine Evers, Lisa StarrPublisher:Cengage Learning
- Biology (MindTap Course List)BiologyISBN:9781337392938Author:Eldra Solomon, Charles Martin, Diana W. Martin, Linda R. BergPublisher:Cengage LearningHuman Biology (MindTap Course List)BiologyISBN:9781305112100Author:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillanPublisher:Cengage Learning