During transcription, on which strand will RNA polymerase be located?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the location of RNA polymerase during the process of transcription, specifically which strand of DNA it binds to and transcribes into RNA. This involves understanding the roles of the coding and template strands in DNA.
Answer
The template strand
RNA polymerase will be located on the template strand during transcription.
Answer for screen readers
RNA polymerase will be located on the template strand during transcription.
More Information
The template strand of DNA is also known as the antisense strand. The other strand is called the coding or sense strand because its sequence corresponds to the mRNA sequence, which later translates into a protein.
Tips
Students often confuse the template strand with the coding strand. Remember, the coding strand is not used for transcription; rather, it is the sequence mirrored in the mRNA.
Sources
- The Transcription Process | Nature - nature.com
- 2.1: Overview of Transcription - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- Stages of transcription: initiation, elongation & termination | Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
