What Is The Difference Between Gene And Cistron?

A gene is structurally, a fundamental unit of hereditary resource or material. The material is uniquely contained in an ordered sequence of nucleotide bases. The sequence thus formed encones a single polypeptide chain. This is inclusive of the regions that proceed and follow the 'coding region' and 'intervening sequences' that lie between individual coding segments. These segments are also referred to as exons. This structure is what accounts for the study of hereditary factors that control our lives.

The term 'cistron' comes from the identification of a gene function via a special test called the 'cis-trans' test. The test determines a section of the DNA that is inclusive of the genetic code for a single polypeptide. It functions as a hereditary unit and is equally accountable for the study of the genetic links that rule our existence.

The gigantic leaps within the spheres of science and technology have enabled detailed study of the complexities within genetic patterns and have in turn, led to a revolution in medicine and research. The study of genes involves the study of the individual units called cistrons and here lies the only difference. The functions and existence of both are interlinked. There is a dedicated stream of research to the study of genes and cistrons and it has brought out some amazing connectivity between generations.