Gene Expression and Epigenetics in the Brain
Genes are not always active
Gene expression
Gene expression is the process by which a cell uses information from a gene to make RNA or protein. Different cells express different sets of genes, which is why neurons, muscle cells, and skin cells behave differently even though they contain the same DNA.
Regulation in neurons
Neurons constantly adjust gene expression in response to activity, development, and environment. This helps the brain adapt during learning, development, and recovery from injury.
Epigenetics
Epigenetics refers to chemical and structural changes that affect gene activity without changing the DNA sequence itself.
Common epigenetic mechanisms
Examples include DNA methylation and histone modification. These mechanisms can make genes easier or harder to use, helping cells remember past conditions in a biological way.
What does epigenetics change?
Epigenetics affects gene activity without altering the DNA sequence.
Correct answer: How gene activity is regulated
What is gene expression?
This describes how genetic information becomes function.
Correct answer: the process of using a gene to make RNA or protein
Gene regulation terms