Enhancer

Definition

An enhancer is a short region of DNA that can increase the transcription of genes. It functions by providing binding sites for transcription factors and other proteins necessary for gene expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enhancers can be located upstream, downstream, or even within the genes they regulate.
2. They function independently of their orientation and position relative to the gene.
3. Enhancers contain multiple binding sites for transcription factors, which help to recruit RNA polymerase.
4. They play a crucial role in differential gene expression during development and in response to environmental signals.
5. Mutations in enhancers can lead to misregulation of gene expression, potentially causing disease.

Review Questions

• Where can enhancers be located relative to the genes they regulate?
• How do enhancers influence gene expression?
• What might be the consequence of a mutation in an enhancer region?

Related terms

Promoter:

A region of DNA where RNA polymerase initiates transcription.

Transcription Factor: A protein that binds to specific DNA sequences, controlling the rate of transcription.

Operon:

A functioning unit of genomic DNA containing a cluster of genes under the control of a single promoter.