Final answer:
Transcription factors are proteins that regulate gene expression during cell differentiation, leading to the formation of specialized tissues and organs. They act by binding to DNA, influencing RNA polymerase's activity, and thus controlling which genes are turned on or off, resulting in diverse cell morphology and functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differential gene expression, influenced by transcription factors, plays a crucial role in cell differentiation and tissue formation. For example, in Drosophila, the slx gene, which determines sex, expresses differently based on the organism's chromosome composition. The presence or absence of slx affects the splicing of the tra gene, leading to the production of specific sexual characteristics. This demonstrates the powerful regulatory role of transcription factors over gene expression resulting in distinct cell functions and morphology.
Cell differentiation occurs when stem cells transform into specialized cells, a process regulated by transcription factors that manipulate gene expression. This differentiation is evident as cells turn certain genes on or off, leading to varied physical and physiological characteristics amongst cell types. The action of transcription factors in gene regulation is a fundamental aspect of cellular differentiation and the development of various tissues and organs.
Organ development from embryonic germ layers highlights the regulatory impact of location-specific chemical signals. These signals initiate gene expression pathways that are finely controlled by transcription factors, guiding stem cells on their journey to becoming specialized cells in the human body.