Gene Expression Pipeline
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About This MicroSim
This step-through pipeline visualization shows the six stages of eukaryotic gene expression: DNA gene structure, transcription to pre-mRNA, 5' cap and poly-A tail addition, intron splicing, nuclear export, and translation into a polypeptide chain. A "Compare Prokaryote" toggle highlights the key differences with prokaryotic gene expression.
How to Use
- Click "Next" to advance through 6 stages of gene expression.
- Read descriptions below the diagram for detailed explanations at each stage.
- Click "Compare Prokaryote" to see how prokaryotic gene expression differs.
- Use "Previous" to revisit earlier stages.
- Color coding: blue = exons, gray = introns, green = promoter, red = terminator, gold = 5' cap, orange = poly-A tail.
Lesson Plan
Grade Level
9-12 (college placement Biology)
Duration
10-15 minutes
Prerequisites
- Understanding of DNA structure and base pairing
- Basic knowledge of RNA types (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA)
- Familiarity with the central dogma (DNA → RNA → Protein)
Activities
- Exploration (5 min): Step through all 6 stages. At each stage, identify what molecules are present and what is happening to the RNA.
- Guided Practice (5 min): Answer: "Why does the mature mRNA have fewer segments than the pre-mRNA?" Toggle the prokaryote comparison and list three differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic gene expression.
- Assessment (5 min): Draw a flowchart from memory showing all 6 stages with the key molecules at each step. Then check your work against the sim.
Assessment
- Can students list the processing steps that occur between transcription and translation in eukaryotes?
- Can students explain why prokaryotes do not need mRNA processing?
- Can students identify the function of the 5' cap and poly-A tail?