Gene Transcription Overview L4 part1

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to gene transcription, its regulation, and the associated molecular processes.

Gene Transcription

The process by which a segment of DNA is copied into RNA by the enzyme RNA polymerase.

Transcription Factors (TFs)

Proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences to regulate gene expression by controlling the transcription process.

mRNA (messenger RNA)

A type of RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized.

tRNA (transfer RNA)

A type of RNA that transports amino acids to the ribosome, matching them to the encoded mRNA sequence.

rRNA (ribosomal RNA)

A type of RNA that, together with proteins, makes up the ribosome's structure and catalyzes protein synthesis.

RNA Polymerase

An enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from a DNA template during transcription.

Promoter

A DNA sequence that signals the start point for transcription and is recognized by RNA polymerase.

Cis-Regulatory Elements

DNA sequences located near a gene that regulate the gene's expression.

Eukaryotic Transcription

The process by which RNA is synthesized from a eukaryotic DNA template, involving complex regulatory mechanisms and multiple transcription factors.

Prokaryotic Transcription

The simpler process of RNA synthesis from a prokaryotic DNA template, usually occurring in the cytoplasm.

Enhancer

A regulatory DNA sequence that increases the likelihood of transcription of a particular gene.

Silencer

A DNA element that can bind repressors to inhibit gene transcription.

Co-activators

Proteins that do not bind DNA directly but assist activators in enhancing gene transcription.

Chromatin Remodeling

The process of modifying the structure of chromatin to make DNA more accessible for transcription.

Initiator Element (INR)

A DNA sequence important for the initiation of transcription at the start site of genes.

5' Capping

The addition of a modified guanine nucleotide at the 5' end of mRNA to protect it from degradation and assist in translation.

Polyadenylation

The addition of a poly-A tail to the 3' end of mRNA, which enhances stability and export from the nucleus.

Primary RNA Transcript

The initial RNA molecule synthesized during transcription that contains both introns and exons.

RNA Splicing

The process of removing introns from the primary RNA transcript and connecting exons to form mature mRNA.

Histone Acetyl Transferases (HATs)

Enzymes that modify histones to promote transcriptional activation.

Histone Deacetylases (HDACs)

Enzymes that remove acetyl groups from histones, typically resulting in transcriptional repression.

Mediator Complex

A multi-protein complex that functions as a co-activator in the transcriptional process, bridging transcription factors and RNA polymerase.