regulatory gene

or regulator gene

noun

, Genetics.

1. any gene that exercises control over the expression of another gene or genes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of regulatory gene¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

The researchers found that this convergent evolution is likely related to changes in the number of copies and the expression patterns of the floral regulatory gene, CYC2.

From Science Daily

They learned that this switch acts on the key memory regulatory gene Tcf7.

From Science Daily

Modifying one such regulatory gene in maize gives a 10% higher yield—a major gain compared with the 1% increase per year achieved by traditional plant breeding.

From Science Magazine

For example, the analysis found that coelacanths and tetrapods share a regulatory gene sequence that helps to promote limb development.

From Nature