Genetic Regulation in Bacteria and Eukaryotes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to genetic regulation in bacteria and eukaryotes as discussed in the lecture.

Operon

All protein-encoding genes found on a single RNA transcript (mRNA) including a 5’ upstream regulatory region.

Lac repressor (LacI)

A protein that binds to the operator of the lac operon, preventing transcription when lactose is absent.

cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate)

A small signaling molecule used as a measure of glucose in cells; high levels indicate low glucose.

Inducer

A molecule (e.g., lactose or allolactose) that binds to a repressor, initiating transcription of a particular gene.

Quorum sensing

A communication process in bacteria that alters gene expression based on local concentrations of signaling molecules.

Gal4

A specific transcription factor that activates the transcription of GAL genes in yeast.

Negative regulator

A gene or protein that inhibits gene expression or transcription.

Positive regulator

A gene or protein that promotes gene expression or transcription.

Src1 protein

A transcriptional co-activator that assists Gal4 in stimulating transcription.

Constitutive expression

Continuous expression of a gene regardless of conditions; typically occurs in the absence of a regulator.

Transcriptional regulation

Control of the amount of mRNA produced from a gene, affecting how much of that gene's product is made.