transcription regulator activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

A molecular function that controls the rate, timing and/or magnitude of gene transcription. The function of transcriptional regulators is to modulate gene expression at the transcription step so that they are expressed in the right cell at the right time and in the right amount throughout the life of the cell and the organism. Genes are transcriptional units, and include bacterial operons. [GOC:pg, GOC:txnOH-2018, Wikipedia:Transcription_factor]

Transcription regulator activity encompasses a wide range of molecular functions involved in controlling gene expression. Transcription regulators, often referred to as transcription factors, bind to specific DNA sequences known as regulatory elements, typically promoters or enhancers. This binding event can either activate or repress the transcription of genes.

Here are some key molecular functions of transcription regulators:

* **DNA binding:** Transcription regulators possess DNA binding domains that recognize and interact with specific DNA sequences. These domains often exhibit high affinity and specificity for their target sequences.
* **Protein-protein interactions:** Transcription regulators can interact with other proteins, including other transcription factors, coactivators, corepressors, and components of the basal transcription machinery. These interactions can influence the activity and specificity of transcription regulators.
* **Chromatin remodeling:** Transcription regulators can recruit chromatin remodeling enzymes to modify the structure of chromatin, making DNA more or less accessible to transcription factors. This regulation can impact gene expression by influencing the recruitment of transcription factors and RNA polymerase.
* **Recruitment of RNA polymerase:** Transcription regulators can directly or indirectly recruit RNA polymerase to gene promoters, initiating the process of transcription.
* **Modulation of transcription initiation:** Transcription regulators can regulate the rate of transcription initiation by modulating the assembly and activity of the pre-initiation complex, which is composed of RNA polymerase and other transcription factors.
* **Regulation of transcription elongation:** Some transcription regulators can influence the rate of transcription elongation by interacting with RNA polymerase or other factors involved in elongation.
* **Termination of transcription:** Transcription regulators can participate in the termination of transcription by influencing the release of RNA polymerase from the DNA template.

Overall, transcription regulators play a crucial role in orchestrating gene expression by modulating various steps in the transcription process. Their molecular functions enable precise control of gene expression in response to diverse cellular signals and environmental cues.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (5)