Introns and exons are important parts of our genes. They help our bodies create different proteins. Let's break down what they are and what they do.

1. Exons:

   • Exons are the parts of genes that help make proteins.
   • Only about 1.5% of our DNA is made up of exons.

2. Introns:

   • Introns are sections of genes that do not help make proteins.
   • They make up about 24% of our DNA. Introns play a big role in a process called alternative splicing.

3. Alternative Splicing:

   • This is a special process that lets one gene create different mRNA copies.
   • Around 95% of human genes use alternative splicing, and this helps produce many different types of proteins.

4. Gene Expression Regulation:

   • Introns can also have important bits called regulatory elements.
   • These elements can change how quickly genes are read and how proteins are made.

In short, exons and introns work together to help us create a diverse range of proteins that our bodies need to function properly.