What does gene expression involve?

Gene expression involves the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically a protein. This process begins when a gene is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA), which is then translated into a protein that can go on to perform various functions in the cell. This functional product can be crucial for cellular processes, including metabolism, signaling, and structural roles.

In contrast, gene duplication refers to the process of creating copies of genes, which can contribute to genetic diversity but isn't directly related to the function of gene expression itself. Recombination of DNA involves rearranging genetic material, which can affect genetic variability and evolution but does not represent the actual synthesis process tied to gene expression. Cell division is a broader biological process involving the replication and division of cells, not specifically concerned with the transcription or translation phases that are core to gene expression. Thus, the most accurate description of gene expression is the synthesis of a functional gene product.