Which RNA polymerase transcribes tRNA?

Study for the A2 Genetic Control of Proteins Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which RNA polymerase transcribes tRNA?

Explanation:
RNA polymerase III is the enzyme that transcribes tRNA. In eukaryotes, different RNA polymerases handle different gene types: polymerase I makes most ribosomal RNA, polymerase II transcribes protein-coding genes and many noncoding RNAs, and polymerase III specializes in small, stable RNAs like tRNA and 5S rRNA. tRNA genes carry internal promoter elements (the A and B boxes) that recruit transcription factors TFIIIC and TFIIIB, which in turn bring in RNA polymerase III to initiate transcription. This setup favors Pol III for tRNA synthesis, whereas Pol I is reserved for rRNA precursors and Pol II for mRNA and many other noncoding RNAs. Pol IV is a plant-specific polymerase involved in siRNA pathways and is not used to transcribe tRNA.

RNA polymerase III is the enzyme that transcribes tRNA. In eukaryotes, different RNA polymerases handle different gene types: polymerase I makes most ribosomal RNA, polymerase II transcribes protein-coding genes and many noncoding RNAs, and polymerase III specializes in small, stable RNAs like tRNA and 5S rRNA. tRNA genes carry internal promoter elements (the A and B boxes) that recruit transcription factors TFIIIC and TFIIIB, which in turn bring in RNA polymerase III to initiate transcription. This setup favors Pol III for tRNA synthesis, whereas Pol I is reserved for rRNA precursors and Pol II for mRNA and many other noncoding RNAs. Pol IV is a plant-specific polymerase involved in siRNA pathways and is not used to transcribe tRNA.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy