Gal4

Gal4 is a protein used in biological research, particularly with fruit flies, to control gene expression. Think of it as a molecular switch: when Gal4 is produced in a cell, it binds to specific DNA sequences called UAS (Upstream Activating Sequences). This binding can turn on or enhance the activity of particular genes. Researchers use Gal4 to selectively activate genes in certain tissues or developmental stages, helping them study gene functions and biological processes with precision. Essentially, Gal4 acts as a customized switch to control when and where genes are active in a living organism.