DNA, RNA, Chromosomes, and GenesGenes |
Are all genes in a genome used by an organism? |
No, not all genes are used by an organism all the time. Since protein synthesis is an energy intensive cellular process, proteins are not produced unless they are needed for a specific cell function. For example, before a human has reached adult height, cells are continually producing human growth hormone, a protein that encourages bone and muscle growth. However, at a certain age (it varies by individual) the gene will become dormant and will no longer produce growth hormone.