A gene that is always being transcribed and translated is _____ expressed.

A gene that is always being transcribed and translated is _____ expressed.

• A. Constitutively
• B. Inducible
• C. Repressible
• D. Latent

Answer: (A)

Constitutive expression describes a gene that is transcribed and translated at a constant level, regardless of environmental signals. That fits the description of a gene that is always active, with steady production of its mRNA and protein. Inducible expression requires a specific signal or inducer to turn transcription on, so it is not always on. Repressible expression is typically on but can be shut off by a regulator under certain conditions, so it isn’t continually active. Latent implies the gene is dormant and not expressed until activated later. Therefore, constitutively expressed best fits the scenario.

Constitutive expression describes a gene that is transcribed and translated at a constant level, regardless of environmental signals. That fits the description of a gene that is always active, with steady production of its mRNA and protein. Inducible expression requires a specific signal or inducer to turn transcription on, so it is not always on. Repressible expression is typically on but can be shut off by a regulator under certain conditions, so it isn’t continually active. Latent implies the gene is dormant and not expressed until activated later. Therefore, constitutively expressed best fits the scenario.