In both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, groups of genes can be regulated simultaneously (coordinately expressed). However, each group accomplishes this task differently. Explain how coordinate expression differs in prokaryotes compared with eukaryotes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is In prokaryotes, coordinate gene expression is often achieved through the use of operons, which are clusters of genes that are transcribed together as a single mRNA molecule. This allows for the simultaneous regulation of multiple genes that are involved in the same metabolic pathway or cellular process. The expression of operons is typically controlled by a single promoter and operator region, which allows for coordinated regulation of gene expression.

In contrast, eukaryotes do not typically use operons for coordinate gene expression. Instead, they rely on the use of transcription factors and enhancer regions to regulate the expression of multiple genes. Transcription factors can bind to enhancer regions, which are often located far from the genes they regulate, and can influence the expression of multiple genes located throughout the genome. This allows for more complex and flexible regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic cells.

Overall, while both prokaryotes and eukaryotes are capable of coordinating the expression of groups of genes, they accomplish this task through different mechanisms. Prokaryotes use operons for coordinated gene expression, while eukaryotes rely on transcription factors and enhancer regions to regulate the expression of multiple genes.

In Both Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes, Groups of Genes Can Be