Gene expression begins with DNA, where the specific sequence of nucleotides in a gene is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) in a process called transcription. This occurs in the nucleus, where RNA polymerase synthesizes the mRNA by reading the DNA template. The mRNA then exits the nucleus and enters the cytoplasm, where it is translated into a polypeptide chain by ribosomes in a process known as translation. Finally, this polypeptide chain folds into a functional protein, which can carry out various roles within the cell.

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Gene expression starts with DNA, which has a special code made up of building blocks called nucleotides. This code tells our cells how to make proteins. First, there's a process called transcription that happens in the nucleus, the cell's control center. During transcription, an important enzyme called RNA polymerase reads the DNA and makes a copy of the code in the form of messenger RNA (mRNA).

Once the mRNA is made, it leaves the nucleus and goes into the cytoplasm, which is the jelly-like part of the cell. There, the mRNA is used in a different process called translation. Ribosomes, which are like tiny factories in the cell, read the mRNA and use it to put together a chain of amino acids, creating a polypeptide chain.

Finally, this chain folds into a specific shape to become a functional protein. These proteins can do many important jobs in the cell, like building structure, speeding up chemical reactions, or fighting off germs!