IBBiologyHLRevision NotesContinuity & ChangeGene ExpressionGene Expression (HL)

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First teaching 2023

First exams 2025

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Gene Expression (HL) (HL IB Biology)

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Marlene

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Marlene

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Biology

Gene Expression

  • Gene expression is the mechanism by which the genetic code contained within DNA has an effect on the phenotype of an organism
  • The most common stages of gene expression include:
    • Transcription -  during which the genetic code is transcribed into mRNA
      • This is an important stage where gene expression may be switched on or off
    • Translation - when the genetic code is translated into proteins at ribosomes
    • The function of the protein product, such as an enzyme, which will affect the phenotype

Gene expression diagram

Gene expression

Transcription, translation and the function of the protein product are the main stages of gene expression in organisms

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Marlene

Author: Marlene

Marlene graduated from Stellenbosch University, South Africa, in 2002 with a degree in Biodiversity and Ecology. After completing a PGCE (Postgraduate certificate in education) in 2003 she taught high school Biology for over 10 years at various schools across South Africa before returning to Stellenbosch University in 2014 to obtain an Honours degree in Biological Sciences. With over 16 years of teaching experience, of which the past 3 years were spent teaching IGCSE and A level Biology, Marlene is passionate about Biology and making it more approachable to her students.