Termination of transcription

Definition

Termination of transcription is the process by which RNA synthesis is concluded. This occurs when RNA polymerase ceases to add nucleotides to the growing RNA chain and detaches from the DNA template.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In prokaryotes, termination can be either rho-dependent or rho-independent.
2. Rho-independent termination involves the formation of a hairpin loop in the nascent RNA, causing RNA polymerase to dissociate.
3. Rho-dependent termination requires the rho protein to bind to the RNA and then travel along it toward the RNA polymerase, disrupting its activity.
4. In eukaryotes, termination often involves cleavage of the newly synthesized RNA followed by polyadenylation.
5. Efficient termination is crucial for proper gene regulation and preventing transcriptional readthrough.

Related terms

RNA Polymerase:

An enzyme that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template during transcription.

Promoter:

A DNA sequence where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription.

Transcription Factors:

Proteins that assist in the initiation and regulation of transcription by binding to specific DNA sequences.