Question

The process of copying the genetic information from one strand of DNA into RNA is termed as transcription. The principle of complementarity of bases governs the process of transcription, also except that uracil comes in place of thymine.

Study the complete transcription unit given below and answer the following questions:

1. Name the main enzyme involved in the process of transcription.
2. Identify coding strand and template strand of DNA in the transcription unit.
3. Identify (C) and (D) in the diagram, mention their significance in the process of transcription.
   OR
4. Describe the location of (C) and (D) in the transcription unit.

Answer 1

1. RNA polymerase is the primary enzyme involved in transcription.
2. Strand A is the template strand, and Strand B is the coding strand.
3. The proximal portion of the transcription unit, known as the promoter region C, is where transcription factors and RNA polymerase can connect. The terminator region, D, is located at the transcription unit’s distal end. It offers a location where termination factors can connect to release RNA polymerase.
   OR
4. C is present upstream at the 5' end of the coding strand. 
   D is present downstream at the 5' end of the template strand.