The accompanying illustration shows a portion of a gene undergoing transcription. The template and coding strands for the gene are labeled, and a segment of DNA sequence is given. For this gene segment:

Identify the direction in which the promoter [TIP 2] for this gene is located. [Diagram below appears here] 

Key Concepts

Gene Transcription

Gene transcription is the process by which a specific segment of DNA is copied into RNA by the enzyme RNA polymerase. This process involves the unwinding of the DNA double helix and the synthesis of a complementary RNA strand based on the template DNA strand. Understanding transcription is crucial for identifying the direction of the promoter, as it determines where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription.

Promoter Region

The promoter is a specific DNA sequence located upstream of a gene that signals the start of transcription. It contains binding sites for RNA polymerase and transcription factors, which are essential for the initiation of transcription. The orientation of the promoter relative to the gene is critical, as it dictates the direction in which RNA polymerase will transcribe the gene.

DNA Strands Orientation

DNA consists of two strands, the template strand and the coding strand, which run in opposite directions (antiparallel). The template strand is used for RNA synthesis during transcription, while the coding strand has the same sequence as the RNA (except for uracil replacing thymine). Understanding the orientation of these strands is vital for determining the location of the promoter and the direction of transcription.