The Disordered MAX N-terminus Modulates DNA Binding of the Transcription Factor MYC:MAX

•Regulation of the transcription factor MYC:MAX is crucial for fundamental cellular processes.•The disordered MAX N-terminus binds to the MYC:MAX DBD in a DNA-competitive manner.•The MAX N-terminus decreases affinity to DNA and accelerates binding kinetics.•Phosphorylation further enhances the effects of the MAX N-terminus.•Intramolecular interactions enable MYC:MAX to rapidly scan DNA for optimal promoter sites.