An operator is the DNA sequence that is usually downstream of the RNA Polymerase binding site but upstream of the first gene in the operon. The operon interacts with a transcriptional repressor. By binding to the operator sequence, repressors physically block the RNA Polymerase from interacting with the -10 and -35 sequences to transcribe.

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Gene expression must be regulated in order to express the genes that are needed at the right times so that cellular energy is not wasted. There are many regulatory genes required for gene regulation in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.

Gene Regulation

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Operons are a section of genes that are all transcribed together. The operon is regulated by the promoter and operator sequence upstream of the genes in the operon. Operons are found primarily in prokaryotes.

Operon

Transcription factors are proteins that regulate genes by binding to DNA. They typically bind upstream of an operon to regulate its expression. They can be repressors and prevent RNA Polymerase from transcribing genes or activators and facilitate the binding of RNA Polymerase to transcribe genes. They respond to stimuli in the cell's environment to regulate genes.

Transcription Factors

Promoter sequences are DNA sequences that define where transcription of a gene by RNA polymerase begins. Transcription factor activators can also interact with this sequence to activate transcription. Promoter sequences are typically located directly upstream of the genes they regulate. 

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