What is the difference between a gene and a protein?

A gene is a sequence of DNA that codes for a protein, which is a molecule that performs a specific function in the body.

Genes and proteins are both essential components of living organisms. Genes are segments of DNA that contain the instructions for making a specific protein. These instructions are encoded in the sequence of nucleotides that make up the gene. When a gene is expressed, the DNA sequence is transcribed into a molecule of RNA, which is then translated into a protein.

Proteins are complex molecules that perform a wide variety of functions in the body. They are made up of chains of amino acids that are folded into specific shapes, which determine their function. Some proteins act as enzymes, catalysing chemical reactions in the body, while others act as structural components of cells and tissues. Still others act as hormones, signalling molecules that regulate various physiological processes.

While genes and proteins are closely related, they are not interchangeable. Each gene codes for a specific protein, and changes in the DNA sequence of a gene can lead to changes in the protein that it codes for. These changes can have profound effects on an organism's phenotype, or observable characteristics. Understanding the relationship between genes and proteins is essential for understanding the molecular basis of life and for developing new treatments for genetic diseases.