How to differentiate between dimerization and interaction of Transcription Factors

Is not there a confusion between dimerization and interaction of Transcription Factors? Someone asks me every day, have you found a protein that transcription factors binds to? or Have you found a protein that it dimerizes?

The terms "dimerization (forming a dimer)" and "interaction" have different meaning when discussing transcription factors

Dimerization

This terms refers to the process where two protein molecules, in this case, transcription factors, bind together to create a complex. These complexes can be homodimers (when the two proteins are identical) or heterodimers (when the two proteins are different). The dimerization often affects the function, stability, or binding properties of the transcription factors involved, and this process can modulate the regulation of target genes.

Interaction

This term is more general and can encompass various types of relationships between transcription factors. Interaction can include direct binding (like dimerization), indirect binding through co-factors or other proteins, or even functional cooperation without direct physical contact. An interaction between two transcription factors can influence their respective functions, stability, or target gene regulation.

Conculsion

So, while dimer formation is a specific type of interaction involving direct binding between two transcription factors, the term "interaction" can also other forms of functional relationship between them.