Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Steps of Transcription

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Steps of Transcription

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Problem 1

Textbook Question

In eukaryotic cells, transcription cannot begin untila. the two DNA strands have completely separated and exposed the promoter.b. several transcription factors have bound to the promoter.c. the 5′ caps are removed from the mRNA.d. the DNA introns are removed from the template.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the process being discussed: Transcription in eukaryotic cells.

Understand the role of transcription factors: These are proteins that help initiate and regulate the transcription of DNA to mRNA.

Recognize the importance of the promoter: The promoter is a specific DNA sequence where transcription factors and RNA polymerase bind to initiate transcription.

Consider the options: Evaluate each option to determine which one correctly describes a necessary step before transcription can begin.

Conclude that transcription factors must bind to the promoter before transcription can start, as they are essential for the recruitment of RNA polymerase to the DNA.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Transcription Factors

Transcription factors are proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences, facilitating the recruitment of RNA polymerase to the promoter region of a gene. They play a crucial role in regulating gene expression by either promoting or inhibiting the transcription process. In eukaryotic cells, the binding of several transcription factors is essential for the initiation of transcription.

Promoter Region

The promoter region is a specific sequence of DNA located upstream of a gene that serves as the binding site for RNA polymerase and transcription factors. It contains essential elements that signal the start of transcription, allowing the DNA strands to separate and enabling the transcription machinery to assemble. Proper functioning of the promoter is critical for the accurate expression of genes.

Eukaryotic Transcription Process

In eukaryotic cells, transcription is a multi-step process that involves the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template. This process requires the unwinding of DNA, the binding of RNA polymerase to the promoter, and the involvement of various regulatory proteins. Unlike prokaryotes, eukaryotic transcription also includes post-transcriptional modifications, such as capping and splicing, which are not directly related to the initiation phase.