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Multiple Choice
Where do transcription regulators usually bind on a DNA double helix?
A
5' end
B
Phosphate backbone
C
Minor groove
D
Major groove
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of the DNA double helix: DNA is composed of two strands that form a helical structure. Each strand is made up of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Identify the components of the DNA double helix: The outer part of the helix is the sugar-phosphate backbone, while the inner part consists of the nitrogenous bases that pair with each other (adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine).
Recognize the grooves in the DNA structure: The DNA double helix has two types of grooves, the major groove and the minor groove. These grooves are formed due to the asymmetrical spacing of the sugar-phosphate backbones.
Determine where transcription regulators bind: Transcription regulators are proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences to control the transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA. They typically bind to the major groove of the DNA.
Explain why transcription regulators bind to the major groove: The major groove provides more accessible and specific chemical information for protein binding due to the larger size and the exposure of base pair edges, allowing transcription regulators to recognize specific DNA sequences.