Corepressor meaning

A corepressor is a molecule that binds to a transcription factor and represses its activity.


Corepressor definitions

Word backwards rosserperoc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division cor-re-pres-sor
Plural The plural of the word "corepressor" is "corepressors."
Total letters 11
Vogais (2) o,e
Consonants (4) c,r,p,s

What is a Corepressor?

Corepressors are proteins that play a crucial role in gene regulation by binding to transcription factors and repressing gene expression. They work in opposition to coactivators, which enhance gene expression. Corepressors are essential for maintaining the balance of gene expression in cells.

Function of Corepressors

Corepressors are involved in several important cellular processes, including development, differentiation, and response to external signals. They help regulate the expression of specific genes by interacting with transcription factors and modifying chromatin structure. This regulation is crucial for normal cellular function.

Mechanism of Action

Corepressors function by recruiting histone deacetylases (HDACs) to specific genes, leading to the removal of acetyl groups from histones. This process causes chromatin to condense, making it more difficult for transcription factors to access DNA and activate gene expression. As a result, gene expression is repressed.

Importance of Corepressors

Corepressors are vital for maintaining the proper balance of gene expression in cells. Dysregulation of corepressors can lead to various health conditions, including cancer, developmental disorders, and metabolic diseases. Understanding how corepressors work is essential for developing novel therapeutic approaches to treat these conditions.

Examples of Corepressors

Some well-known corepressors include N-CoR (nuclear receptor corepressor) and SMRT (silencing mediator of retinoic acid and thyroid hormone receptors). These corepressors play key roles in regulating gene expression in response to hormones and other signaling molecules.


Corepressor Examples

  1. The corepressor molecule binds to the repressor protein to inhibit gene expression.
  2. In the absence of the corepressor, the repressor is unable to block transcription.
  3. A corepressor is essential for maintaining proper gene regulation in the cell.
  4. The corepressor plays a key role in the feedback loop controlling gene expression.
  5. When the corepressor is present, it helps silence the target gene.
  6. Researchers are studying the interaction between corepressors and transcription factors.
  7. Mutations in corepressor genes can lead to dysregulation of gene activity.
  8. The corepressor complex interacts with histone modifiers to regulate chromatin structure.
  9. In some cases, corepressors can switch functions and become coactivators.
  10. Understanding the role of corepressors is crucial for developing targeted therapies.


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  • Updated 20/06/2024 - 11:50:58