regulatory genes

views updated

regulatory genes Genes that control development by regulating the expression of structural genes responsible for the formation of body components. They encode transcription factors, which interact with regulatory sites of other genes causing activation or repression of developmental pathways. Much of development in quite different organisms, such as mammals and insects, is controlled by genes that are structurally very similar, thought to descended from genes in ancient common ancestors. Prime examples are the homeotic genes, such as the Hox genes of mammals.

More From encyclopedia.com