English

Process of Transcription in Bacteria

Advertisements

Topics

Estimated time: 10 minutes
CBSE: Class 12

Process of Transcription in Bacteria

CBSE: Class 12

Step 1: Initiation

  • The sigma (σ) factor associates with the core RNA polymerase to form the holoenzyme.
  • The holoenzyme recognises and binds to the promoter region on the DNA.​

The promoter contains two key sequences upstream of the transcription start site:

  • –10 region (Pribnow Box): Rich in A-T base pairs; easily melts open (consensus: TATAAT)
  • –35 region: Important for initial recognition by σ factor

The DNA double helix unwinds and opens at the initiation site (+1), forming an open complex.​ Once transcription begins, the σ factor dissociates from the holoenzyme - it is only needed for initiation.

CBSE: Class 12

Step 2: Elongation

  • RNA polymerase moves along the template strand in the 3'→5' direction.​
  • New RNA is synthesised in the 5'→3' direction.​

The substrate used is ribonucleoside triphosphates (NTPs) — ATP, GTP, CTP, UTP.​

  • Note: Uracil (U) pairs with Adenine (A) in DNA → unlike DNA where Thymine pairs with A

The two DNA strands re-anneal behind the polymerase as it moves forward. Only one strand (template strand) is read at a time.

CBSE: Class 12

Step 3: Termination

Transcription termination in bacteria occurs by two mechanisms:

Feature Rho-Independent Rho-Dependent
Protein factor required No Yes (ρ factor)
Mechanism Hairpin loop + U-rich sequence Rho protein chases polymerase
Energy requirement No (intrinsic) Yes (Rho is an ATPase)
Common name Intrinsic termination Factor-dependent termination
CBSE: Class 12

Key Points: Process of Transcription in Bacteria

  • A single RNA polymerase synthesises all types of RNA (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA).
  • Initiation starts when RNA polymerase binds to the promoter region.
  • Elongation occurs using nucleotides based on complementary base pairing.
  • Termination happens at a terminator sequence, releasing RNA.
  • No mRNA processing; transcription and translation occur simultaneously.
Advertisements
Share
Notifications

Englishहिंदीमराठी


      Forgot password?
Use app×