Cis-Acting Elements

Definition

Cis-acting elements are DNA sequences in the vicinity of the structural portion of a gene that have regulatory functions. They control the transcription and translation of nearby genes.

Analogy

Think about cis-acting elements as local government officials who make rules for their specific town (the nearby genes). Their influence doesn't extend to other towns (genes far away).

Related terms

Trans-Acting Factors: These are proteins that bind to cis-acting elements to control gene expression. They're like enforcers or police officers implementing the rules set by our local officials (cis-acting elements).

Enhancer: A short region of DNA that can be bound with proteins (trans-acting factors) to enhance transcription levels of genes. This is like a motivational speaker boosting morale and productivity at work.

Silencer: A DNA sequence capable of binding transcription regulation factors, called repressors. It down-regulates the expression of a gene. Imagine this as a strict boss who slows down work progress.