Activator
Definition
An activator is a protein that increases gene transcription by binding to an enhancer or promoter-proximal element. Activators facilitate the binding of RNA polymerase to the promoter, initiating transcription.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Activators bind to specific DNA sequences known as enhancers or promoter-proximal elements.
- They play a crucial role in positive regulation of gene expression.
- The interaction between activators and RNA polymerase enhances the rate of transcription initiation.
- Some activators require co-activators to function effectively.
- Mutations in activator proteins can lead to dysregulation of gene expression and associated diseases.
Review Questions
- How do activators increase the rate of gene transcription?
- What are the specific DNA sequences called where activators bind?
- Why might some activators require co-activators?
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Related terms
Repressor: A protein that inhibits gene transcription by binding to an operator or silencer region.
Operon: A cluster of genes under control of a single promoter and regulated together.
Enhancer: A DNA sequence that promotes transcription by serving as a binding site for activator proteins.
