ABSTRACT
CONTENTS 8.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 103 8.2 Levels of Regulation ................................................................................................................. 104 8.3 Transcription Factors ................................................................................................................ 104 8.4 Regulatory Signals ..................................................................................................................... 110 8.5 Identifi cation of Regulatory Motifs in Silico ............................................................................. 111 8.6 Transcriptomics and Proteomics ............................................................................................... 113 8.7 Additional Regulatory Mechanisms .......................................................................................... 114 References ......................................................................................................................................... 115
8.1 Introduction In the postgenomic era the importance of gene expression and regulation is becoming ever more apparent. Expression is ultimately related to function and its characterization inevitably helps in identifying the biological role of genes and proteins. Putative functional links between genes can be formed on the basis of observed coordination of expression and this in turn provides valuable information about the components of specifi c biological processes. Gene expression is a fundamental aspect of gene function that can be effi ciently monitored globally, through transcriptomics, providing a wealth of additional information that can be mapped back onto the genome. The manipulation of biological processes will often require altered expression of genes and proteins; consequently, an understanding of how this can be achieved is invaluable. Proteins with central functions in regulation are also potentially very good targets for antifungals, where their subversion can potentially disrupt key processes involved in pathogenicity. The regulatory systems are intrinsically important biological systems in themselves, justifying an increased awareness and understanding of the components involved, their molecular interactions, and mechanisms of function. Finally, the development and evolution of these processes will inform us about key processes involved in speciation and adaptation.
