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regulatory gene
noun
variants
or regulator gene
: a gene that regulates the expression of one or more structural genes by controlling the production of a protein (such as a genetic repressor) which regulates their rate of transcription
Examples of regulatory gene in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Developmental biologists have had tremendous success in identifying networks of regulatory genes that talk to one another — cascading systems of feedback loops that turn genes on or off at exactly the right time and place to build, say, an eye or a leg.
—Quanta Magazine, 18 Sep. 2023
In Gray’s case, the gene editor built by Crispr Therapeutics intentionally crippled a regulatory gene in her bone marrow cells, boosting production of a dormant, fetal form of hemoglobin, and overcoming a mutation that leads to poor production of the adult form of the oxygen-carrying molecule.
—Megan Molteni, Wired, 7 July 2020
None of this is that surprising, EDAR is a significant regulatory gene which shapes the peripheries and exterior of an organism.
—Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 19 Feb. 2013
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Word History
First Known Use
1960, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near regulatory gene
Cite this Entry
“Regulatory gene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/regulatory%20gene. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
regulatory gene
noun
variants
or regulator gene
: a gene that regulates the expression of one or more structural genes by controlling the production of a protein (as a genetic repressor) which regulates their rate of transcription
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