Operon is a term in genetics that refers to a section of DNA that controls the expression of genes in a cell. It consists of a promoter, an operator region and structural genes.
A promoter is a section of DNA that determines the beginning of gene transcription. It contains a sequence of nucleotides that binds to RNA polymerase and starts the process of transcription.
An operator region is a section of DNA located between the promoter and structural genes. It is responsible for interaction with regulatory proteins that control the expression of structural genes. Operator areas can be either positive or negative.
Structural genes are sections of DNA containing information about protein synthesis. They code for the amino acids that make up proteins.
The operon plays an important role in regulating gene expression. Regulatory proteins bind to the operator site and change its conformation, which leads to changes in the activity of structural genes. This allows the cell to regulate the amount of proteins produced depending on the body's needs.
Thus, the operon is a key element in the genetic control of gene expression in the cell and plays an important role in the development and functioning of the organism.