RNA Synthesis and Polymerase in E.coli

What is the primary role of the 3'-OH group during RNA synthesis?

Which statement accurately describes the structure of the RNA polymerase holoenzyme?

What differentiates the core RNA polymerase enzyme from the holoenzyme?

Approximately how many RNA polymerase molecules are actively involved in transcription at a given time in an E. coli cell?

What aspect of RNA synthesis does the presence of the DNA template influence?

RNA Synthesis

RNA synthesis is the process of creating an RNA molecule from ribonucleotide subunits.
The reaction involves the polymerisation of ribonucleotides, where the 3'-OH group of one ribonucleotide reacts with the 5'-P group of another, forming a phosphodiester bond.
This process is guided by a DNA template, which dictates the order of ribonucleotides in the newly synthesized RNA molecule.
DNA-dependent RNA polymerase is the enzyme responsible for catalyzing this reaction.

DNA-dependent RNA Polymerase

The enzyme responsible for RNA synthesis in E.coli was discovered in 1958.
Each E.coli cell contains approximately 7000 RNA polymerase molecules, with 2000 to 5000 actively involved in transcription at any given time.
The structure of the enzyme is α₂ββ' σ, meaning it comprises two α polypeptides, one β, one β', and one σ subunit.
This complete enzyme is referred to as the holoenzyme, with a molecular mass of 450,000 daltons.
The core enzyme, lacking the σ subunit, has a molecular mass of 380,000 daltons.
The holoenzyme and core enzyme have distinct roles during transcription.

This quiz explores the essential process of RNA synthesis, highlighting the role of ribonucleotides, DNA templates, and the enzyme DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. You will also learn about the structure and function of this enzyme, particularly in E.coli, where it plays a crucial role in transcription.