In the context of genetics, "expressed" refers to the process by which the information encoded in a gene is transformed into a functional product, typically a protein, which ultimately contributes to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism (phenotype).
Here’s a breakdown of the terms in your notes:
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The code we use to denote the gene: This refers to the specific sequence of DNA nucleotides that encode the instructions for building a protein.
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How it is read: This involves the processes of transcription and translation, where the gene is first transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) and then translated into a protein.
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"Expressed" means it will be what you see (phenotype = physically see): When a gene is expressed, the resulting proteins contribute to the organism's physical traits (phenotype), such as eye color, height, or the ability to metabolize certain substances.
In summary, gene expression is the process through which the instructions in our DNA are turned into a functional product that affects the organism's phenotype.
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