Imunoquímica e Imunopatologia

Evolution and Genetic Regulation of the Immune System

Abstract

Haruki Murakami

Genetic regulation, also known as gene regulation or gene expression, refers to the complex mechanisms that control how genes are turned on or off in a cell, determining whether a particular gene is active or inactive at any given time. This process is crucial for the proper functioning of living organisms, as it allows cells to respond to different internal and external cues and adapt to changing conditions. Genetic regulation occurs at multiple levels, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational and post-translational levels and involves a variety of regulatory elements and proteins that interact with DNA, RNA and other cellular molecules. The key players in genetic regulation are transcription factors, which are proteins that bind to specific regions of DNA and either enhance or inhibit the transcription of a particular gene.