# Describe how non-coding DNA controls which proteins are produced in a cell.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.4.1 Variation · Describe · 4 marks

> Human cells all contain the same genome, yet liver cells and muscle cells produce different proteins and carry out different functions.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Non-coding DNA does not code for / is not used to make a protein (itself)
2. Non-coding DNA controls / regulates gene expression by switching genes on or off
3. When a gene is switched on it is active and can be used in protein synthesis / transcribed
4. This means different cells can produce different proteins / not every protein is needed by every cell at all times

## Key terms

- [non-coding DNA](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/non-coding-dna)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-how-non-coding-dna-controls-which-3eaeab65) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.