Textbook Question
Compare and contrast the items in each pair: (c) general transcription factors and sigma.
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Ch. 19 - Control of Gene Expression in Eukaryotes
Chapter 18, Problem 10
One hypothesis for differences between humans and chimpanzees involves differences in gene regulation. A study using RNA-seq showed that the overall patterns of gene expression were similar in the liver and blood of the two species, but the expression patterns were strikingly different in the brain. How do these results relate to the hypothesis?
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Gene Regulation
Gene regulation refers to the mechanisms that control the expression of genes, determining when and how much of a gene product is made. Differences in gene regulation can lead to variations in phenotype, even among species with similar genetic sequences. This concept is crucial for understanding how slight changes in regulatory elements can result in significant differences in traits, such as cognitive abilities in humans and chimpanzees.
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Introduction to Regulation of Gene Expression
RNA-seq
RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) is a powerful technique used to analyze the transcriptome, which is the complete set of RNA transcripts produced by the genome at any given time. By comparing RNA-seq data from different species, researchers can identify differences in gene expression levels and patterns. This method provides insights into how gene regulation varies between species, particularly in specific tissues like the brain.
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Brain Function and Evolution
The brain is a complex organ responsible for higher cognitive functions, and its development is influenced by gene expression patterns. Differences in brain gene expression between humans and chimpanzees may reflect evolutionary adaptations that contribute to unique cognitive abilities in humans. Understanding these differences is essential for exploring the biological basis of human intelligence and behavior compared to our closest relatives.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Predict how a mutation that caused continuous production of active p53 would affect the cell.
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Textbook Question
In the follow-up work to the experiment shown in Figure 19.6, the researchers used a technique that allowed them to see if two DNA sequences are in close physical proximity (association). They applied this method to examine how often an enhancer and the core promoter of the Hnf4a regulatory gene were near each other. A logical prediction is that compared with rats born to mothers fed a healthy diet, the Hnf4a gene in rats born to mothers fed a protein-poor diet would a. show no difference in how often the promoter and enhancer associated. b. never show any promoter–enhancer association. c. show a lower frequency of promoter–enhancer association. d. show a higher frequency of promoter–enhancer association.
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Textbook Question
The Hawaiian bobtail squid (Euprymna scolopes) is able to glow from luminescent Vibrio fischeri bacteria held in its light organs. As it swims at night near the ocean surface, it adjusts the amount of light visible to predators below to match the light from the stars and moon. Predators have difficulty seeing the illuminated squid against the night sky. The bacteria glow in response to a molecule that regulates expression of genes involved in light-producing chemical reactions. The regulator controls production of the genes' mRNA. Therefore, the light-producing genes are under a. transcriptional control. b. translational control. c. post-translational control. d. negative control.
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