Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes a prerequisite for transcription initiation in eukaryotic cells?

A) The two DNA strands have completely separated and exposed the promoter.
B) DNA nucleases have isolated the transcription unit.
C) Several transcription factors have bound to the promoter.
D) The DNA introns are removed from the template.
E) The 5' caps are removed from the mRNA.

Answer 1

The correct prerequisite for transcription initiation in eukaryotic cells is the binding of several transcription factors to the promoter, including binding to the TATA box, which is part of the initiation complex.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options given, the one that accurately describes a prerequisite for transcription initiation in eukaryotic cells is C) Several transcription factors have bound to the promoter. During the initiation step in eukaryotes, an initiation complex forms, which includes a variety of transcription factors that bind to specific sequences on the DNA, such as the TATA box.

These factors are necessary for RNA polymerase II to recognize the promoter and begin transcribing DNA into mRNA. The TATA box, located approximately 25 to 35 bases upstream of the transcription start site, is A-T rich, facilitating the local unwinding of the DNA to allow for the assembly of the transcription machinery.