Regulation of Gene Expression in Eukaryotes

Precisely regulated gene expression is a prerequisite
for producing and maintaining the
many different types of cells and tissues of a
multicellular organism. Cells differentiate into
their particular cell types by means of combinations
of expressed and repressed genes. During
differentiation the tightly regulated genes function
in the order, usually sequential, required
for a particular cell fate (developmental pathways).
Many regulator genes and their proteins
have been identified (cf. part III, Genetics and
Medicine). The following outlines some important
principles of the specific control of gene expression
in eukaryotic cells.