Gene expression is the process by which the information encoded in DNA is used to synthesize proteins. It begins with the transcription of a specific gene from DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA), which serves as a template. The mRNA is then transported out of the nucleus and into the cytoplasm, where it undergoes translation. During translation, the ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and build a chain of amino acids, forming a protein. Thus, gene expression enables the information encoded in DNA to be translated into functional proteins.
