Campbell Biology (10th Edition)
Campbell Biology (10th Edition)
10th Edition
ISBN: 9780321775658
Author: Jane B. Reece, Lisa A. Urry, Michael L. Cain, Steven A. Wasserman, Peter V. Minorsky, Robert B. Jackson
Publisher: PEARSON
bartleby

Concept explainers

bartleby

Videos

Textbook Question
Book Icon
Chapter 17, Problem 17.1CR

Describe the process of gene expression, by which a gene affects the phenotype of an organism.

Expert Solution & Answer
Check Mark
Summary Introduction

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?

Subscribe now to access step-by-step solutions to millions of textbook problems written by subject matter experts!
Students have asked these similar questions
Describe the process of gene expression, by which a gene affects thephenotype of an organism.
Explain the Gene Expression: From DNA to Phenotype ?
Explain how an organism uses gene expression to create a phenotype from a genotype.

Chapter 17 Solutions

Campbell Biology (10th Edition)

Knowledge Booster
Background pattern image
Biology
Learn more about
Need a deep-dive on the concept behind this application? Look no further. Learn more about this topic, biology and related others by exploring similar questions and additional content below.
Recommended textbooks for you
  • Text book image
    Concepts of Biology
    Biology
    ISBN:9781938168116
    Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
    Publisher:OpenStax College
Text book image
Concepts of Biology
Biology
ISBN:9781938168116
Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
Publisher:OpenStax College
QCE Biology: Introduction to Gene Expression; Author: Atomi;https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7hydUtCIJk;License: Standard YouTube License, CC-BY