Most activators function by binding sequence-specifically to a regulatory DNA site located near a promoter and making protein–protein interactions with the general transcription machinery (RNA polymerase and general transcription factors), thereby facilitating the binding of the general transcription machinery to the ...

What does an activator do in biology?

(Science: biochemistry) a DNA-binding transcription metabolite that positively modulates an allosteric Enzyme or regulates one or more genes by increasing the rate of transcription.

Are activators necessary for transcription?

Activator binding is required for transcription. Repressor binding blocks transcription.