Gene expression can be altered more easily at the level of post-transcriptional processing in eukaryotes than in prokaryotes because ________.
A) eukaryotic mRNAs get 5' caps and 3' tails
B) prokaryotic genes are expressed as mRNA, which is more stable in the cell
C) eukaryotic exons may be spliced in alternative patterns
D) prokaryotes use ribosomes of different structure and size

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic pre-mRNAs undergo extensive post-transcriptional processing, including splicing of exons and addition of a 5' cap and 3' tail. Alternative splicing allows for the production of multiple protein isoforms from a single gene, providing a greater potential for gene expression regulation. Prokaryotic genes are transcribed into stable mRNA molecules that do not undergo splicing or modification, which limits their potential for post-transcriptional regulation. The other options are not accurate or relevant to the question.

Gene Expression Can Be Altered More Easily at the Level