Multiple Choice
The control of gene expression is more complex in multicellular eukaryotes than in prokaryotes because __________.
920
views
16. Regulation of Expression
Introduction to Eukaryotic Gene Regulation
1:41 minutesProblem 5
Textbook Question
The control of gene expression is more complex in multicellular eukaryotes than in prokaryotes because __________. (Explain your answer.)
a. Eukaryotic cells are much smaller
b. In a multicellular eukaryote, different cells are specialized for different functions
c. Prokaryotes are restricted to stable environments
d. Eukaryotes have fewer genes, so each gene must do several jobs
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context of the question: Gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products, such as proteins. The complexity of gene expression control can vary between prokaryotes and eukaryotes due to differences in their cellular organization and functions.
Analyze the options provided: Each option suggests a reason why gene expression might be more complex in multicellular eukaryotes. Evaluate each one based on biological principles.
Evaluate option a: 'Eukaryotic cells are much smaller.' This is incorrect because eukaryotic cells are generally larger than prokaryotic cells, and cell size does not directly influence the complexity of gene expression.
Evaluate option b: 'In a multicellular eukaryote, different cells are specialized for different functions.' This is correct because multicellular eukaryotes have specialized cells (e.g., muscle cells, nerve cells) that require precise and diverse gene expression patterns to perform their specific functions. This specialization adds complexity to gene regulation.
Evaluate options c and d: Option c ('Prokaryotes are restricted to stable environments') is incorrect because environmental stability does not directly relate to gene expression complexity. Option d ('Eukaryotes have fewer genes, so each gene must do several jobs') is also incorrect because eukaryotes generally have more genes than prokaryotes, and the complexity arises from regulatory mechanisms, not gene quantity.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
1mWas this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Gene Expression Regulation
Gene expression regulation refers to the mechanisms that control the timing, location, and amount of gene product (RNA or protein) produced in a cell. In multicellular eukaryotes, this regulation is complex due to the need for different cell types to express different genes based on their specialized functions, allowing for diverse physiological roles within the organism.
Recommended video:
Guided course
06:40
Introduction to Regulation of Gene Expression
Cell Specialization
Cell specialization, or differentiation, is the process by which generic cells develop into distinct cell types with specific functions. In multicellular eukaryotes, this specialization requires intricate regulatory networks to ensure that only the necessary genes are expressed in each cell type, contrasting with prokaryotes, where cells typically perform similar functions and express similar genes.
Recommended video:
03:44Special Cases of Genetic Drift
Eukaryotic vs. Prokaryotic Gene Structure
Eukaryotic genes often contain introns and regulatory sequences that are not present in prokaryotic genes, which are generally simpler and organized in operons. This structural complexity in eukaryotes necessitates more sophisticated mechanisms for gene expression control, as multiple regulatory elements must coordinate to ensure proper gene function in response to developmental and environmental cues.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:26Recap: Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells
3:47mWatch next
Master Introduction to Eukaryotic Gene Regulation with a bite sized video explanation from Jason
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice