What is the difference between a gene and an allele?

A gene is a section of DNA or RNA that codes for a protein. Alleles are different versions of the gene.  For example, if a gene coding for a particular enzyme mutated, then there would be two alleles of the gene: the 'normal' form and the mutated form. The proteins encoded would probably also be slightly different, for instance the mutated allele might code for the same enzyme but in a slightly different shape.

EP
Answered by Ellen P. Biology tutor

6583 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain and contrast the differences between plant and animal cells.


How does blood flow through the heart?


Explain what the reflex arc is, how it is different to how the central nervous system normally works, and how the arc itself works.


Compare and contrast facilitated diffusion and osmosis.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning