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Core Genetics & Mechanisms

Promoter / Enhancer / Regulatory Element

Non-coding DNA sequences that control when, where, and how genes are expressed. They function as molecular switches that coordinate transcriptional activity by interacting with transcription factors, chromatin modifiers, and the basal transcription machinery.

Overview

Promoters, enhancers, and other regulatory elements are non-coding DNA sequences that control when, where, and how genes are expressed. They function as molecular switches that coordinate transcriptional activity by interacting with transcription factors, chromatin modifiers, and the basal transcription machinery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a promoter and an enhancer?

Promoters are proximal regulatory regions located immediately upstream of a gene's transcription start site that initiate transcription. Enhancers are distal elements that can be thousands of base pairs away and function independently of position to increase transcription.

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Related Terms

Open Reading Frame (ORF)

A continuous stretch of DNA or RNA sequence that can be translated into a protein. It begins with a start codon (typically AUG in mRNA) and ends with a stop codon (UAA, UAG, or UGA). ORFs represent the protein-coding potential of a gene.

Safe Harbor Locus

A defined region of the genome where a transgene or targeted DNA sequence can be inserted without disrupting endogenous genes or regulatory networks. Integration at a safe harbor site allows stable, predictable expression.

Rosa26 Locus

A well-characterized safe harbor site in the mouse genome, located on chromosome 6. It supports stable and ubiquitous expression of inserted genes without interfering with nearby genomic functions and is the standard integration site for transgenic constructs.

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