Gene expression is controlled in a highly organized way to ensure that specific genes are expressed at the appropriate times and levels. This process can be modulated at virtually any step, from transcriptional initiation to RNA processing and post-translational modification of a protein.  Gene expression is controlled on two levels: Transcription: This level controls the amount of mRNA that is produced from a particular gene. Post-transcriptional events: This level regulates the translation of mRNA into proteins.  The primary control point for gene expression is usually the initiation of... Show more

Gene expression is controlled in a highly organized way to ensure that specific genes are expressed at the appropriate times and levels. This process can be modulated at virtually any step, from transcriptional initiation to RNA processing and post-translational modification of a protein. 

Gene expression is controlled on two levels:
Transcription: This level controls the amount of mRNA that is produced from a particular gene.
Post-transcriptional events: This level regulates the translation of mRNA into proteins. 
The primary control point for gene expression is usually the initiation of transcription. This is because many proteins can be made from a single mRNA molecule. 

Gene expression can be controlled by a wide range of mechanisms, including:
Repressors: These bind to specific DNA sequences and inhibit transcription.
Transcriptional activators: These regulate gene expression in eukaryotic cells.
Menin: This scaffold protein controls gene expression and cell signaling. 

Environmental factors can also impact which genes are expressed. 
These factors include: Diet, Temperature, Oxygen levels, Humidity, Light cycles, Presence of mutagens. 

Topics include: Aberrations & Disorders, Gene Expression-Bacteria, Gene - Eukaryotes, Transcriptional-level Control, Processing-level Control, Translational Control, & Post-translational Control.

Related:

Cell Biology Practice Test: Gene Expression

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