Which of the following is NOT correct when considering the initiation of transcription in E. coli?
A) The σ subunit of RNA polymerase makes strong contacts with the -10 region of promoters.
B) Only the -10 region of the promoter is required.
C) DNA melting near the transcription start site is essential for promoter recognition.
D) The phosphodiester bonds that are formed are not stable until about 10 nucleotides have been incorporated.
E) The RNA polymerase contacts about 50 bp of DNA.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both the -10 and -35 regions of promoters are required for efficient transcription initiation in E. coli. The σ subunit of RNA polymerase makes strong contacts with both regions, and DNA melting near the transcription start site is also essential for promoter recognition. The phosphodiester bonds formed during transcription are unstable until about 10 nucleotides have been incorporated, as stated in choice D. Choice E is also correct, as RNA polymerase contacts about 50 bp of DNA during transcription initiation. Therefore, the only incorrect statement is choice B, which suggests that only the -10 region is required.

Which of the Following Is NOT Correct When Considering the Initiation