Operons
Definition
An operon is a functioning unit of genomic DNA containing clustered genes under control of a single regulatory signal or promoter. Operons are found in prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea).
Analogy
Think of an operon like a music playlist. Just as you might create a playlist for specific moods or activities, cells use operons to group together genes that work towards the same function.
Related terms
Promoter: A region of DNA where RNA polymerase binds and starts transcription.
Repressor: A protein that suppresses the transcription of a gene.
Regulator Gene: A gene involved in controlling the expression of one or more other genes.
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