Transcriptional activator

Function

Transcriptional activators or Transcriptional regulators (TA) are proteins which bind to DNA and stimulate nearby gene transcription. TA transcription stimulation is achieved by enhancing RNA polymerase binding or by enhancing the formation of open complex which is required for initiation of transcription. TA bind to a specific DNA sequence in or near an operon via their DNA-binding domain (DBD)^[1]. PrfA is an activator of virulence genes in Listeria monocytogenes^[2]. See also Listeriolysin positive regulatory factor A.

Structural highlights

TA contains 3 domains: DBD, trans-activating domain (TAD) which binds coregulator proteins and an optional ligand-binding domain (LBD) which senses external signals.

• (PDB entry 1h89).
• .
• . Water molecules are shown as red spheres.

3D Structures of transcriptional activator

Transcriptional activator 3D structures