Question

CREB is a(n) _________ that switches on genes responsible for the development of new synapses. a. amino acid b. protein c. neurotransmitter d. enzyme

Short answer

CREB is a protein.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

The question is asking for the classification of CREB, specifically how it functions in the genetic process. It provides four options: amino acid, protein, neurotransmitter, and enzyme. The goal is to determine which category accurately describes CREB based on its role.

Identifying the Function of CREB

CREB stands for cAMP response element-binding protein. It is known for binding to certain regions of DNA and influencing the transcription of specific genes. These genes are often involved in the formation and development of new synapses.

Analyzing the Options

Let's go over the options: - An amino acid is a building block of proteins, not typically involved directly in switching on genes. - A protein is a complex molecule actively involved in the transcription process, potentially switching on genes. - A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger not directly involved in gene expression. - An enzyme is a type of protein that catalyzes biochemical reactions, which could be involved in gene expression in some contexts but not the primary role of CREB.

Matching CREB to its Correct Category

From the analysis, since CREB is a binding protein that influences gene transcription, it categorically fits as a protein. It does not match the primary role of an enzyme, neurotransmitter, or amino acid.

Key concepts

Gene Expression

Gene expression is a fundamental process through which the information encoded in DNA is used to produce proteins and other molecules necessary for cellular function. This process is essential for cell differentiation, growth, and response to environmental stimuli. Gene expression occurs in two main stages: transcription and translation.

- **Transcription** is the first step and involves copying a segment of DNA into RNA. This is initiated by certain proteins, including transcription factors like CREB, binding to specific DNA sequences, turning genes 'on' or 'off'.
- **Translation** follows transcription, where RNA is used to build proteins, the actual workhorses of the cell.

CREB plays a pivotal role by binding to the cAMP response element within DNA, thereby activating genes responsible for various physiological processes like synapse development.

Synapse Development

Synapse development is a crucial process for establishing communication between neurons in the brain. Synapses are junctions through which neurons send signals to each other, enabling complex functions such as thought, behavior, and memory.

The development of new synapses is not only essential in early brain development but also in the learning process and memory formation throughout life. Proteins like CREB are integral to this process:

• CREB activates specific genes that facilitate the growth and strengthening of synapses.
• This activation helps in forming new neural pathways.
• Long-term memory storage is believed to be tied to these structural changes in the brain.

Understanding synapse development sheds light on how gene expression, influenced by proteins like CREB, impacts higher cognitive functions.

DNA Binding Proteins

DNA binding proteins play a critical role in the regulation of gene expression. They interact directly with DNA sequences and include a wide variety of proteins such as transcription factors and repressors.

- **Transcription factors**, like CREB, are pivotal since they bind to specific DNA regions and recruit other proteins to help transcription operate smoothly.
- **DNA regulation**: These proteins can either promote or suppress the transcription of genes.
- **Structure and Function**: Their ability to specifically bind DNA sequences is due to highly specialized structures that recognize particular DNA motifs.

CREB, as a DNA-binding protein, is involved in activating genes necessary for processes like synapse development, showcasing the intertwined complexity of genetic regulation.