gene expression

• • Gene expression is the process by which information stored in a gene is used to synthesise a functional gene product – a polypeptide. 
• • Genes can be switched on and off to make the required polypeptides for specific proteins.
• • Although a cell may contain the entire genome, only specific genes will be expressed or ‘switched on’ at any given time. 
• • This ensures a cell only produces a polypeptide forming a specific protein that provides the cell with its functionality and characteristics.