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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Structural and Regulatory Genes?

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The main difference between structural and regulatory genes lies in the proteins or factors they encode. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Structural Genes:
  • Code for proteins and most RNAs, except for regulatory factors.
  • The products include structural proteins and enzymes.
  • In prokaryotes, structural genes of related functionality are usually present adjacent to each other, and regulated by a single promoter and operator.
  • In eukaryotes, structural genes are mainly found in the coding regions.
  • Regulatory Genes:
  • Code for proteins or factors that control the expression of structural genes.
  • In prokaryotes, regulatory genes code for repressor proteins, which control the level of expression of structural genes.
  • Regulatory genes are typically found somewhat distant from the structural genes, say, 500 base pairs apart, and are mostly found in the intron regions.
  • From a clinical perspective, regulatory genes are used to either activate or repress the expression of a specific gene.

In summary, structural genes are responsible for coding proteins and most RNAs needed for cell structure or function, while regulatory genes are involved in controlling the expression of structural genes.

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  • What is the Difference Between Structural and Regulatory Genes?
  • Comparative Table: Structural vs Regulatory Genes

    • Comparative Table: Structural vs Regulatory Genes

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between structural and regulatory genes:

    Feature Structural Genes Regulatory Genes
    Definition Structural genes code for proteins and RNAs, except regulatory factors. They include structural proteins and enzymes, as well as non-coding RNAs such as tRNAs and rRNAs. Regulatory genes code for proteins or factors that control the expression of other genes, such as miRNA and siRNA.
    Location In prokaryotes, structural genes of related functionality are usually adjacent to each other. In eukaryotes, they are mostly found in the coding regions. Regulatory genes are usually found a bit far from the structural genes, say, 500 base pairs apart, and are mostly found in the intron regions.
    Function Structural genes encode proteins required for structural and functional uses. Regulatory genes code for repressor proteins in prokaryotes, controlling the level of expression of structural genes.
    Clinical Significance Structural genes can be studied to find out any genetic variations or mutations in the sequences. Regulatory genes can be used clinically to activate or repress the expression of a particular gene.

    In summary, structural genes code for proteins and RNAs that have structural and functional roles, while regulatory genes code for factors that control the expression of other genes.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.