Autoregulatory control

Pronunciation: /aw-to-reg-yoo-lat-ory kon-trol/

Category: Molecular Biology

Definition

A form of gene regulation where a gene's expression is controlled by its own product. This often involves feedback loops where the protein produced by the gene regulates its own transcription.

Etymology

From Latin 'auto-', meaning 'self', and 'regulation', meaning 'control'.

Example

The transcription factor protein, Hox, can act as an autoregulatory control mechanism.

Related Terms

Feedback loop
Transcriptional regulation
Gene expression

Usage Notes

Autoregulatory control is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and ensuring proper development.