DNA-dependent RNA polymerase
DNA-dependent RNA polymerase (pronunciation: dee-en-ay-dee-pen-dent ar-en-ay pah-luh-muh-rays) is an Enzyme that catalyzes the transcription of DNA into RNA using the four ribonucleoside triphosphates as substrates.
Etymology
The term "DNA-dependent RNA polymerase" is derived from the function of the enzyme. "DNA-dependent" refers to the enzyme's requirement for DNA as a template for its activity, and "RNA polymerase" refers to its function in synthesizing RNA.
Function
DNA-dependent RNA polymerase is responsible for the transcription of DNA into RNA. This process is crucial for Protein synthesis, as the RNA molecules serve as templates for the synthesis of proteins. The enzyme binds to specific regions of the DNA molecule known as promoters, and initiates the synthesis of an RNA molecule.
Types
There are several types of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases, each with a specific function:
- RNA polymerase I: Transcribes ribosomal RNA (rRNA)
- RNA polymerase II: Transcribes messenger RNA (mRNA) and some small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs)
- RNA polymerase III: Transcribes transfer RNA (tRNA) and some small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs)
Related Terms
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