Promoter

Definition

A promoter is a specific DNA sequence where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription of a gene. It contains essential regulatory elements that control the expression of adjacent genes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Promoters contain conserved sequences like the TATA box in eukaryotes and -10 and -35 regions in prokaryotes.
2. The strength of a promoter influences the rate of gene transcription.
3. Promoters are located upstream (5') of the gene they regulate.
4. In eukaryotes, promoters may require additional factors like enhancers and silencers to function properly.
5. Mutations in promoter regions can lead to altered levels of gene expression, potentially causing diseases.

Review Questions

• What role does a promoter play in transcription?
• How do the conserved sequences within promoters differ between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
• Why are mutations in promoter regions significant for gene expression?

Related terms

RNA Polymerase: The enzyme responsible for reading DNA sequences and synthesizing RNA during transcription.

TATA Box: A conserved DNA sequence found within the promoter region of many eukaryotic genes, important for binding transcription factors.

Enhancer: A short region of DNA that can increase transcription levels by interacting with proteins bound at the promoter.