Skip to main content
Ch. 16+17 - Transcription, RNA Processing, and Translation
Chapter 16, Problem 8

In what ways are a promoter and a start codon similar? In what ways are they different?

Verified Solution

Video duration:
1m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

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

Promoter

A promoter is a specific DNA sequence located upstream of a gene that serves as a binding site for RNA polymerase and transcription factors. It initiates the transcription of the gene into messenger RNA (mRNA). Promoters are crucial for regulating gene expression, as they determine when and how much of a gene is transcribed.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:23
Structure of an Operon

Start Codon

A start codon is a specific sequence of three nucleotides (AUG) in mRNA that signals the beginning of translation. It is recognized by the ribosome, which assembles amino acids into a polypeptide chain to form proteins. The start codon is essential for ensuring that the protein synthesis begins at the correct location on the mRNA.
Recommended video:
Guided course
05:03
1) Initiation of Translation

Gene Expression Regulation

Gene expression regulation involves the mechanisms that control the timing and amount of gene expression. Both promoters and start codons play critical roles in this process; promoters regulate the transcription of genes, while start codons dictate the initiation of translation. Understanding their similarities and differences helps clarify how genes are expressed and translated into functional proteins.
Recommended video:
Guided course
06:40
Introduction to Regulation of Gene Expression
Related Practice
Textbook Question

Which of the following describes mutations? Select True or False for each statement. T/F Point mutations can occur in any DNA sequence. T/F Frameshift mutations can occur in any DNA sequence. T/F Neutral mutations depend on the degeneracy of the genetic code. T/F Deleterious mutations occur only in protein-coding sequences of DNA.

426
views
Textbook Question

In a particular bacterial species, temperature-sensitive conditional mutations cause expression of a wild-type phenotype at one growth temperature and a mutant phenotype at another—typically higher—temperature. Imagine that when a bacterial cell carrying such a mutation is shifted from low to high growth temperatures, RNA polymerases in the process of elongation complete transcription normally, but no new transcripts can be started. The mutation in this strain most likely affects: a. the terminator sequence b. the start codon c. sigma d. one of the polypeptides of the core RNA polymerase

594
views
Textbook Question

Explain what's wrong with this statement: All point mutations change the genotype and the phenotype.

476
views
Textbook Question

The nucleotide shown here is called cordycepin triphosphate. It is a natural product of a fungus that is used in traditional medicines. If cordycepin triphosphate is added to a cell-free transcription reaction, the nucleotide is added onto the growing RNA chain but then no more nucleotides can be added. Examine the structure of cordycepin and explain why it ends transcription.

655
views
Textbook Question

Draw a hypothetical metabolic pathway in Neurospora crassa composed of five substrates, five enzymes, and a product called nirvana. Number the substrates 1–5, and label the enzymes A–E, in order. (For instance, enzyme A catalyzes the reaction between substrates 1 and 2.) (a) Suppose a mutation made the gene for enzyme C nonfunctional. What molecule would accumulate in the affected cells?

507
views
Textbook Question

Draw a hypothetical metabolic pathway in Neurospora crassa composed of five substrates, five enzymes, and a product called nirvana. Number the substrates 1–5, and label the enzymes A–E, in order. (For instance, enzyme A catalyzes the reaction between substrates 1 and 2.) (b) Suppose a mutant strain can survive if substrate 5 is added to the growth medium, but it cannot grow if substrates 1, 2, 3, or 4 are added. Which enzyme in the pathway is affected in this mutant?

498
views