Question

Transcription in bacteria differs from transcription in a eukaryotic cell because __________________________. (a) RNA polymerase (along with its sigma subunit) can initiate transcription on its own. (b) RNA polymerase (along with its sigma subunit) requires the general transcription factors to assemble at the promoter before polymerase can begin transcription. (c) the sigma subunit must associate with the appropriate type of RNA polymerase to produce mRNAs. (d) RNA polymerase must be phosphorylated at its C-terminal tail for transcription to proceed.

Answer 1

The correct answer is: (a) RNA polymerase (along with its sigma subunit) can initiate transcription on its own.

More differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic transcription:

• In prokaryotes transcription occurs in the cytoplasm (unlike in eukaryotes in nucleus) and it is simultaneous with translation,

• In prokaryotes there is only one type of RNA polymerase (in eukaryotes there are three types of them).

• There is no sigma subunit in eukaryotes, the initiation of transcription begins thanks to initiation factors.

• Promoter region in prokaryotes contains pribnow box, while in eukaryotes it contains TATA and CAT box.