Question

Describe how the sigma subunit (factor ?) of E coli RNA polymerase participates in translation.

A) The sigma subunit is involved in translation initiation.
B) The sigma subunit is part of the ribosome.
C) The sigma subunit is responsible for splicing.
D) The sigma subunit is involved in translation termination.

Answer 1

The sigma subunit of E. coli RNA polymerase is involved in translation initiation by helping the polymerase recognize the promoter region and start transcription from the correct initiation site.

Step-by-step explanation:

The sigma subunit, also known as the factor ?, of E. coli RNA polymerase is involved in translation initiation. It helps the polymerase recognize and bind to the promoter region of the DNA, marking the beginning of transcription. The sigma subunit confers transcriptional specificity, ensuring that the polymerase starts synthesizing mRNA from the correct initiation site. Without the sigma subunit, the polymerase would transcribe from random sites, producing mRNA molecules that specify protein gibberish.