Final answer:
The sequence TATAAT, known as the TATA box, is located at the -10 position from the transcription start site in prokaryotic promoters. This is crucial for the attachment of RNA polymerase and the initiation of transcription.
correct option is a. -10
Step-by-step explanation:
The prokaryotic promoters contain the TATA box sequence TATAAT at a position known as the -10 region. This is the correct option for the location of the TATAAT sequence in relation to the transcription start site in prokaryotic organisms. It is a crucial part of the promoter's structure that is recognized by the sigma (σ) factor of RNA polymerase to initiate transcription. This -10 region helps in the unwinding of the DNA strand, facilitating the transcription process. The -35 sequence with the consensus sequence TTGACA is another essential element of the prokaryotic promoter that aids in the binding of the transcription machinery.
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have promoters with TATA box sequences, although their locations and exact sequences might slightly vary. In eukaryotes, for example, this sequence is typically found between -25 and -35 positions relative to the initiation site and is called the TATA box as well. However, the one found in prokaryotes is precisely at the -10 location. To correctly answer the question,
The sequence TATAAT is at position -10 from the transcription start, making option a) the correct choice.