Regulatory gene
Regulatory gene
A Regulatory gene (pronunciation: /ˈrɛɡjʊˌleɪtəri dʒiːn/) is a type of gene that codes for a protein capable of influencing the expression of one or more other genes.
Etymology
The term "Regulatory gene" is derived from the English word "Regulate" which means to control or direct according to rule, principle, or law and the Greek word "gene" which means to give birth to.
Function
Regulatory genes primarily function in the genetic regulation of other genes, controlling the production of the proteins they code for. This is achieved through the production of transcription factors, which bind to specific DNA sequences and either promote or inhibit the transcription of the associated gene.
Types
There are two main types of regulatory genes: activators and repressors. Activators enhance the transcription of a gene, while repressors inhibit it. These two types of regulatory genes work together to ensure that genes are expressed in the right cell at the right time and in the right amount.
Related Terms
- Gene expression: The process by which information from a gene is used to create a functional product, usually a protein.
- Transcription factor: A protein that controls the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to messenger RNA.
- Activator (genetics): A protein that increases gene transcription of a gene or set of genes.
- Repressor: A DNA- or RNA-binding protein that inhibits the expression of one or more genes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Regulatory gene
- Wikipedia's article - Regulatory gene
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