Definition

A type of protein that attaches to a specific part of DNA to prevent the production of certain proteins by blocking the process of copying DNA into RNA.

Example

The repressor protein stopped the gene from being expressed in the cell.

Conversation

I was reading about how a repressor works in genetics.

Oh, really? What does it do exactly?

It binds to an operator and blocks transcription, which is pretty fascinating.

That is interesting! It sounds like it plays a crucial role in gene regulation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Repressor → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again or back) and "premere" (meaning to press). The word "repressor" refers to something that presses back or holds back.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'presses back' ('re-' means back and 'premere' means to press') — that's why a repressor is something that holds back.

Visually Confused Words