Definitions

1. noun

A cluster of genes in a bacterium that controls the synthesis of a specific enzyme, typically involved in the breakdown or synthesis of a particular substance.

“The discovery of the lac operon led to a greater understanding of gene regulation in bacteria.”

2. noun

A region of DNA that contains a set of genes that are transcribed together as a single unit.

“The operon is a key component in the regulation of gene expression in many organisms.”

3. noun

A unit of genetic organization in prokaryotic cells that controls the transcription of a set of genes.

“The operon is a fundamental concept in molecular biology and genetics.”