Gene expression analysis

Gene expression analysis is a molecular approach to quantify gene expression within an organism, cell culture or microbial community. It provides information on the actual biological activity of cells , revealing which genes are activated or repressed under specific conditions (stress, growth, exposure to a compound, formulation, etc.).
This analysis has become an essential tool for applied research , the development of innovative products and the evaluation of biological effects in the cosmetics , nutraceutical and plant sectors .
In particular, it allows:

• Evaluate the biological effects of an active ingredient (e.g. stimulation of collagen synthesis, reduction of oxidative stress).
• Identify molecular mechanisms of action in plant or microbial cells.
• Control the physiological response of an organism to a formulation or environmental stress.

Analytical methods used

Gene expression analysis is based on high-precision molecular biology methods, adapted to the type of sample and the number of genes targeted:

• RT-qPCR (Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) : the gold standard for the targeted quantification of gene expression . It measures the relative abundance of messenger RNA (mRNA) after reverse transcription, offering high sensitivity and specificity.
• Transcriptomics (RNA-Seq) : a comprehensive approach based on high-throughput sequencing of all transcripts present in a cell or organism. It allows for an exhaustive analysis of the expression of thousands of genes simultaneously , paving the way for the discovery of new biomarkers and the detailed characterization of biological responses.

These techniques provide a comprehensive view of the gene expression profile , useful for both basic research and industrial development.
For more information, also see the DNA sequencing analysis , which is often complementary to identify the initial genetic composition before the expression study.

Affected matrices

Gene expression analysis can be applied to a wide variety of biological matrices depending on the research objectives:

• Microbial cultures : monitoring the regulation of genes linked to the production of secondary metabolites or resistance to environmental stresses.
• Plant tissues and extracts : study of genes involved in the biosynthesis of active compounds (polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes).
• Industrial fermentations : control of genes associated with productivity, quality of metabolites or stability of the strains used.
• Cosmetic samples : analysis of the effects of ingredients on the expression of genes involved in skin regeneration, the lipid barrier or the inflammatory response.

This approach makes it possible to evaluate the biological response at the molecular level and to optimize production processes or active formulations.

Industrial and scientific applications

Gene expression analysis is now a strategic tool in many fields:

• Cosmetics and dermocosmetics : scientific demonstration of the effectiveness of an active ingredient or formulation (“claim support” effectiveness tests).
• Nutraceuticals : identification of activity biomarkers (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, metabolic) for food supplements.
• Plants and plant biotechnologies : optimization of the production of secondary metabolites, study of resistance to water or thermal stress.
• Microbial biotechnologies : monitoring the expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis of molecules of interest or in the degradation of pollutants.

This analysis is often combined with complementary approaches such as metabolomics or proteomics to obtain an integrated understanding of cellular mechanisms.

Analytical benefits

There are several advantages to using gene expression analysis:

• High specificity and sensitivity .
• Ability to analyze single genes or sets of genes .
• Direct correlation with biological functions.
• Adaptability to different types of biological matrices.

It allows us to obtain a precise molecular signature , a true indicator of the physiological response to a stimulus, a treatment or a formulation.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab relies on a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited partner laboratories , specialized in genetic, transcriptomic and biochemical analyses.
Our experts support you in:

• Selection of relevant target genes or expression panels.
• The choice of analytical method (RT-qPCR or RNA-Seq).
• Bioinformatics interpretation of data and the use of results in a regulatory or scientific framework.

Thanks to its digital platform , YesWeLab makes it easier to manage your analyses: requesting quotes, tracking samples and securely retrieving results reports.

To complement your molecular biology studies, also:

• Whole transcriptome analysis (RNA-Seq) for a global view of genetic activity.
• Analysis of expressed proteins (proteomics) to correlate expression data with cellular functions.

For any specific request, contact our scientific team to obtain complete support for your genetic and functional analysis projects.