key term - TATA Box

Definition

The TATA box is a DNA sequence found in the promoter region of genes. It's crucial for the initiation of transcription, as it helps position RNA polymerase II.

Related terms

Promoter:

A region of DNA that initiates transcription of a particular gene. It's like the 'start' button for gene expression.

Transcription:

The process by which information in a strand of DNA is copied into a new molecule of messenger RNA (mRNA). Like transcribing notes from an audio recording.

RNA Polymerase II: An enzyme that catalyzes the transcription of DNA to synthesize precursors of mRNA. This is like the worker who follows instructions to build something.