What is the main difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic gene regulation?

• A. Eukaryotic gene regulation is simpler and involves fewer steps than prokaryotic regulation.
• B. Prokaryotic gene regulation occurs in the nucleus, whereas eukaryotic regulation occurs in the cytoplasm.
• C. Eukaryotic gene regulation involves complex transcriptional control, while prokaryotic regulation is primarily at the transcriptional level.
• D. Prokaryotic gene regulation is controlled by RNA splicing, while eukaryotic regulation is not.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that gene regulation refers to the processes that control the expression of genes, determining when and how much of a gene product is made.
2. Recognize that prokaryotic cells, which lack a nucleus, regulate gene expression primarily at the transcriptional level. This means that the control of gene expression is mainly through the initiation of transcription.
3. Identify that eukaryotic cells, which have a nucleus, have more complex gene regulation mechanisms. These include transcriptional control, but also involve additional layers such as RNA processing, RNA splicing, and post-transcriptional modifications.
4. Note that in eukaryotes, transcription occurs in the nucleus, and the mRNA must be processed and transported to the cytoplasm for translation. This adds complexity to the regulation process.
5. Conclude that the main difference is the complexity and multiple levels of control in eukaryotic gene regulation compared to the primarily transcriptional control in prokaryotic gene regulation.