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A stem-loop structure is formed in the RNA causing the polymerase to pause.

a. initiation
b. elongation
c. termination

1 Answer

4 votes

Answer:

c. termination

Step-by-step explanation:

Stem-loop structure is formed as a part of Rho independent termination or intrinsic termination process in prokaryotes. The newly formed mRNA strand encounters a sequence that can base pair with itself to form a stem-loop structure. This loop is 7-20 base pairs long and is rich in Guanine and Cytosine bases. Due to strong hydrogen bonding between the GC pairs, the loop formed is very stable. A protein bound to RNA Polymerase binds to this loop and stops the enzyme from further transcribing. Stem loop structure is usually followed by a poly uracil sequence. Weak Adenine-Uracil bonds weaken the RNA-DNA duplex. The duplex unwinds and RNA Polymerase dissociates terminating transcription process.

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