Transcription Factor

Transcription factors are proteins that play a crucial role in gene expression, the process by which information from a gene is used to make a functional product, like a protein. They attach to specific DNA sequences near a gene, acting like switches that can either promote or inhibit the gene's activity. By regulating which genes are turned on or off, transcription factors help control various biological processes, including development, cell function, and response to environmental signals. Their precise action is vital for maintaining normal cellular functions and overall health.