Predict the outcome of addition of DMS to the open complex formed when polymerase binds to a promoter.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

DMS (dimethyl sulfate) is a methylating agent that can add methyl groups to nucleotides, specifically guanine and adenine. When added to an open complex formed by polymerase binding to a promoter, DMS may methylate some nucleotides, potentially affecting the ability of transcription factors to bind to the DNA or alter the recognition of the polymerase for the template strand. This can result in changes to the rate or efficiency of transcription but is not likely to cause a displacement of polymerase or breakage of phosphodiester bonds in the operator region. Therefore, choice B is the best option.

Predict the Outcome of Addition of DMS to the Open