Final answer:
Mutations in the promoter region of a gene can alter the rate of transcription. Some mutations can increase the transcription rate by enhancing the binding of the transcription factor to the promoter, while others can decrease it by disrupting the binding site.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mutations in the promoter region of a gene can alter the rate of transcription by affecting the binding site for the transcription factor. Some mutations can increase the rate of transcription by enhancing the binding of the transcription factor to the promoter, while others can decrease the rate of transcription by disrupting the binding site.
For example, a mutation in the DNA sequence of the promoter or enhancer region can increase the binding ability of a transcription factor, leading to increased transcription of the gene. This can occur in cancer cells, where mutations that activate transcription factors can result in aberrant gene expression and modified cell growth.