At what point does the sigma ( σ ) subunit of RNA polymerase released from the core enzyme?
A) Prior to the incorporation of any nucleotides into an RNA strand.
B) After transcription begins and about 10 nucleotides have been added to the RNA chain.
C) Just prior to chain termination.
D) Never; it is an intrinsic part of the core enzyme.
E) After RNA polymerase discovers an inverted repeat

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sigma (σ) subunit of RNA polymerase is released from the core enzyme after the initiation phase of transcription, which typically occurs after about 9 to 15 nucleotides have been synthesized. This release allows the core enzyme to continue elongation of the RNA transcript.

At What Point Does the Sigma ( σ ) Subunit