What are the components of the bacterial RNA polymerase holoenzyme?

Prepare for the ASCP Molecular Biology (MB) Technologist Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to succeed!

The bacterial RNA polymerase holoenzyme is composed of a specific arrangement of subunits essential for the enzyme's function in transcription. The correct configuration consists of two alpha (α) subunits, one beta (β) subunit, one beta prime (β′) subunit, and one sigma (σ) factor.

The two alpha subunits play a crucial role in the assembly of the enzyme and in promoting the interaction with regulatory proteins. The beta and beta prime subunits together form the catalytic core of the enzyme, responsible for the actual synthesis of RNA from a DNA template. The sigma factor is essential for the initiation of transcription; it aids the RNA polymerase in recognizing and binding to specific promoter regions on the DNA, which is necessary for the transcription process to commence.

This comprehensive structure allows the holoenzyme to efficiently initiate and carry out RNA transcription, making it vital for gene expression in bacteria.

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