Cis-acting element

Definition

A cis-acting element is a region of non-coding DNA that regulates the transcription of nearby genes. These elements are typically located on the same DNA molecule as the gene they control and include promoters, enhancers, and silencers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cis-acting elements are essential for the proper regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes.
2. They function by binding transcription factors or other regulatory proteins to influence gene transcription.
3. Promoters are a type of cis-acting element that initiates the transcription of a particular gene.
4. Enhancers increase the rate of transcription when bound by specific proteins, whereas silencers suppress it.
5. Mutations in cis-acting elements can lead to various genetic disorders due to improper gene regulation.

Review Questions

Related terms

Transcription Factor: A protein that binds to specific DNA sequences to regulate transcription.

Promoter:

A type of cis-acting element that serves as the binding site for RNA polymerase and initiates transcription.

Enhancer: A DNA sequence that increases the rate of transcription when bound by specific proteins, even if located far from the gene.