Define each of the following terms:

transcription

Key Concepts

Transcription

Transcription is the process by which the genetic information encoded in DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA). This occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, where RNA polymerase binds to a specific region of the DNA, unwinds the double helix, and synthesizes a complementary RNA strand. The resulting mRNA carries the genetic code from the DNA to the ribosomes, where it will be translated into proteins.

RNA Polymerase

RNA polymerase is the enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from a DNA template during transcription. It catalyzes the formation of RNA by adding ribonucleotides in a sequence complementary to the DNA strand. There are different types of RNA polymerases in eukaryotic cells, each responsible for transcribing different types of RNA, such as mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA.

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. This region is crucial for initiating transcription, as it determines where transcription begins and regulates the expression of the gene. The presence of specific sequences within the promoter can influence the efficiency and timing of transcription.