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Differential Gene Expression

Definition

Differential gene expression is the process by which genes are turned on or off in different cell types, at different stages of development, or in response to environmental changes.

Analogy

Think of differential gene expression like a light switch board for a large building. Each room (cell type) needs different lights (genes) on at different times. The janitor's closet might only need the light on when cleaning supplies are needed (specific stage of development), while the main office might have its lights on all day (constant activity).

Related terms

Gene Regulation: This is the broad term for how cells control which genes are expressed and when. It's like deciding who has access to the light switches in our analogy.

Transcription Factors: These proteins bind to specific DNA sequences and control the transcription of genetic information from DNA to mRNA. They're like the individual switches that turn each light (gene) on or off.

Epigenetics: This refers to changes in gene expression that don't involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. It's like putting a dimmer switch on some rooms' lights - it doesn't change what bulbs are there, just how brightly they shine.