Activator (genetics)
Activator (genetics)
An Activator in Genetics is a protein that increases gene expression by binding to an enhancer, or, in some cases, to a promoter.
Pronunciation
- /ækˈtɪveɪtər/
Etymology
The term "activator" comes from the Latin word "activare", meaning "to set in motion" or "to activate". In the context of genetics, it refers to the role of these proteins in "activating" gene expression.
Function
Activators enhance the rate of transcription of a gene. They do this by binding to specific sites on DNA and helping the RNA polymerase to initiate transcription. Activators can also recruit other proteins, such as transcription factors, to the gene, further enhancing transcription.
Related Terms
- Repressor: A protein that decreases gene expression. Repressors are the opposite of activators.
- Regulator Gene: A gene that codes for a protein, such as an activator or repressor, that controls the transcription of another gene or group of genes.
- Operon: A functioning unit of genomic DNA containing a cluster of genes under the control of a single promoter.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Activator (genetics)
- Wikipedia's article - Activator (genetics)
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