Definition
noun, plural: facultative genes
(1) A gene transcribed only when needed or when a cell receives a signal from its surroundings.
(2) A gene whose expression is influenced by environmental factors.
Supplement
Unlike constitutive gene, a facultative gene is not transcribed continually but only when needed.
Compare: constitutive gene.
See also: gene expression.
Dictionary > Facultative gene
You will also like...

Origins of Life on Earth
Earth was created around 4.5 billion years ago and life began not long after. Primitive life likely possessed the elemen..

Protein Activity and Cellular Metabolism
Proteins have a crucial role in various biological activities. Get to know how proteins are able to perform as enzymes, ..

Chemical Composition of the Body
The body is comprised of different elements with hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen as the major four. This tutorial..

Adaptation Tutorial
Adaptation, in biology and ecology, refers to the process or trait through which organisms or the populations in a habit..

Homeostatic Mechanisms and Cellular Communication
Homeostasis is the relatively stable conditions of the internal environment that result from compensatory regulatory res..

Control of Growth & Development
Control of Growth & Development tutorials look at how the genetic makeup determines the biological processes on a da..