Final answer:
Gene expression is measured to understand how genes are regulated and how cells respond to changes in their environment. It provides insights into the factors that influence gene activity and can be used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gene expression is the process by which a gene is used to create a functional product, usually a protein. Scientists measure gene expression because it provides important insights into how genes are regulated and how different cells respond to changes in their environment. Gene expression can vary greatly depending on the cell type, developmental stage, and environmental conditions, so measuring gene expression helps researchers understand the factors that influence gene activity.
For example, gene expression studies have been used to identify genes that are activated during specific stages of development or in response to diseases. By measuring gene expression, scientists can also identify genes that are overexpressed or underexpressed in certain diseases, which can be used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
Overall, measuring gene expression is a fundamental tool in molecular biology that helps scientists understand how genes function and how their activity is regulated.