Question

In the prokaryote

b. subtilis, the rna polymerase holoenzyme binds to a set of promoters when nutrients are readily available, and to a different set of promoters under conditions of nutrient deprivation. the ability of the holoenzyme to bind different promoters under these conditions involves a switch of one subunit. remembering the functions of the rna pol holoenzyme subunits discussed in class, which subunit is most likely to enable this change in promoter binding?

Answer 1

The sub unit which is most likely to enable this change in promoter binding is THE SIGMA FACTOR.
The sigma factor is a protein that is needed for the initiation of RNA synthesis. It is a transcription initiation factor that is found in bacteria, it allows the specific binding of the RNA polymerase to the gene promoters.