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Coactivators and Corepressors

Meaning

Coactivators and Corepressors are crucial non-DNA-binding proteins that regulate gene transcription by interacting with nuclear hormone receptors bound to DNA. Coactivators enhance the transcriptional activity of a hormone-receptor complex, essentially turning gene expression ‘on’ or increasing its output. Conversely, corepressors inhibit or diminish the transcriptional activity, effectively acting as molecular brakes on gene expression. The dynamic balance and recruitment of these regulatory proteins determine the precise cellular response to circulating hormones.