How do prokaryotes handle gene expression differently compared to eukaryotes?

Prokaryotes handle gene expression differently from eukaryotes in several distinct ways, one of which is that they can begin the process of translation while transcription is still underway. This simultaneous process is possible due to the lack of a nucleus in prokaryotic cells. In prokaryotes, as soon as the RNA polymerase starts synthesizing mRNA from DNA, ribosomes can attach to the growing mRNA strand and start translating it into protein.

This is a fundamental feature of prokaryotic biology that allows for rapid protein synthesis, which is essential for their survival and adaptation to varying environmental conditions. In contrast, eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus where transcription occurs, and mRNA must undergo extensive processing (such as capping, polyadenylation, and splicing) before it can be transported out of the nucleus for translation in the cytoplasm. Therefore, the delayed timeline between transcription and translation in eukaryotic cells is markedly different from the simultaneous action found in prokaryotes.

This distinction is crucial for understanding cellular biology, as it highlights the more streamlined and efficient nature of prokaryotic gene expression.