What Are the Key Mechanisms of Gene Expression Regulation?
Several mechanisms are involved in the regulation of gene expression:
Transcriptional Regulation: This is the first level of control, where transcription factors and other proteins interact with promoters and enhancers to promote or inhibit transcription. Epigenetic Modifications: These include DNA methylation and histone modifications, which alter chromatin structure and impact gene accessibility. RNA Processing and Stability: Post-transcriptional modifications such as splicing, polyadenylation, and miRNA regulation can influence RNA stability and translation efficiency. Translational Control: The initiation and elongation phases of translation can be modulated to control protein synthesis. Post-Translational Modifications: Proteins can undergo modifications like phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and glycosylation, influencing their activity and degradation.
