Which enzyme transcribes DNA into RNA?

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

Question: Which enzyme transcribes DNA into RNA?

Answer:

  • RNA polymerase enzyme transcribes DNA into RNA.
  • Transcription is a process catalyze by RNA polymerase which involves the synthesis of RNA molecules using a DNA template.
  • RNA polymerase binds to a specific region of DNA called the promoter, which marks the starting point for transcription.
  • The RNA polymerase unwinds and separates the DNA strands, exposing the template strand.

 

EnzymeDNA Polymerase
FunctionCatalyzes the synthesis of DNA by adding nucleotides to the growing DNA strand
TypesVarious types of DNA polymerases exist, including DNA polymerase I, II, III, and others, each with specific roles in DNA replication, repair, or specialized functions
DNA Synthesis DirectionAdds nucleotides in the 5′ to 3′ direction
Primer RequirementNeeds a short RNA or DNA primer to initiate DNA synthesis
ProofreadingSome DNA polymerases possess proofreading activity, enabling them to correct errors in DNA replication
ProcessivityDNA polymerases exhibit high processivity, allowing them to add multiple nucleotides without dissociating from the DNA template
SubunitsDNA polymerases are composed of multiple subunits that contribute to their catalytic activity and stability
Replication MachineryDNA polymerase III is the primary polymerase responsible for DNA replication in prokaryotes, while DNA polymerase α, δ, and ε are involved in replication in eukaryotes
Specialized FunctionsSome DNA polymerases have specialized functions, such as translesion synthesis, DNA repair, or recombination
Primer RemovalDNA polymerase I possesses 5′ to 3′ exonuclease activity, allowing it to remove RNA primers during DNA replication and fill the gaps with DNA
Commercial AvailabilityDNA polymerases are commercially available for various applications in molecular biology and research
ThermostabilityCertain DNA polymerases, such as Taq polymerase, exhibit high thermostability and are used in PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
InhibitorsSome chemicals, such as nucleoside analogs, can inhibit DNA polymerase activity by incorporating into the growing DNA chain and disrupting replication
Clinical SignificanceMutations in DNA polymerase genes can lead to genetic disorders, such as DNA polymerase proofreading-associated syndromes
Molecular Biology ApplicationsDNA polymerases are widely used in various molecular biology techniques, including DNA amplification (PCR), DNA sequencing, cloning, and DNA labeling

Important Questions about Enzymes

  1. Enzymes MCQs
  2. Inhibition in enzymes
  3. Which enzyme digests starch?
  4. Which enzyme digests protein?
  5. which enzyme is present in saliva?
  6. Which enzyme is not present in succus entericus?
  7. Which enzyme breaks down protein in the stomach?
  8. Which enzyme converts fibrinogen to fibrin?
  9. Which enzyme converts glucose into alcohol?
  10. Which enzyme digests fat?
  11. Which enzyme digests milk protein?
  12. Which enzyme is used in PCR?
  13. Which enzyme unzips the DNA double helix?
  14. Which liver enzyme increases with alcohol?
  15. Which enzyme cuts DNA?
  16. Which enzyme catalyzes the first step of glycolysis?
  17. Which enzyme binds DNA fragments together?
  18. Which enzyme transcribes DNA into RNA?
  19. which enzyme adds new nucleotides?
  20. Which enzyme digests cellulose?
  21. Which enzyme separates the two strands of DNA?
  22. Which enzyme converts carbohydrates into glucose?
  23. Which enzyme removes RNA primer?
  24. Which enzymes help in digestion?
  25. Which enzyme works best in acidic conditions?
  26. Which enzyme synthesizes tRNA?
  27. Which enzyme secreted by pancreas?
  28. Which enzyme converts maltose into glucose?
  29. Which vitamins work as coenzyme?