The final product of gene expression is a functional protein. In the process of gene expression, the information encoded in a gene is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) during transcription. This mRNA is then translated into a specific sequence of amino acids to form a protein during translation.
To elaborate, gene expression involves two main stages: transcription and translation. During transcription, the DNA sequence of a gene is copied to produce mRNA. This mRNA serves as a template for building proteins. In the next stage, translation, ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and assemble amino acids in the correct order to create a protein.
Proteins are essential for numerous functions within cells, including acting as enzymes, hormones, structural components, and signaling molecules. Therefore, the ultimate goal of gene expression is to synthesize these proteins, which perform critical roles in maintaining cellular and organismal functions.