CMB2001/L01 Transcription Flashcards
Describe the central dogma.
DNA -> RNA -> Protein
Define transcription.
Transfer of genetic information from dsDNA to ssRNA
Briefly describe transcription in prokaryotes. (3)
RNA polymerase binds to promoter region with sigma70
Forms open complex and moves along DNA in transcription bubble
Sigma70 and RNA pol released
Define promoters.
Cis acting DNA regulatory element through which transcription is initiated and controlled
Where are promoters located?
Within 60bp of transcription start site
What defines the efficiency of transcription?
Similarity of promoter to consensus sequence
Give 3 eukaryotic promoters.
TATA box
Initiator (Inr)
MTE (motif tan element)
DPE (downstream core promoter element)
BRE (TFIIB recognition element)
Describe the TATA box. (3)
Eukaryotic promoter element
Located -31 to -26
Pyramidine-rich sequence
TATAA/TAA/TA/G
Describe the initiator (Inr).
Eukaryotic promoter element
-2 to +4
YYANA/TYYY
Describe the MTE (motif tan element). (3)
Eukaryotic promoter element
+18 to 28
CG/CAA/GCG/CG/CAAC
Describe the DPE (downstream core promoter region). (3)
Eukaryotic promoter element
+28 to 32
A/GGA/TCGTG
Describe the BRE (TFIIB recognition element). (3)
Eukaryotic promoter element
-37 to -32
G/CG/CG/AGGCC
How are eukaryotic promoters different from prokaryotic?
Eukaryotic promoters are looser and more flexible
Not all elements will be within one promoter
How can CpG islands affect gene transription?
Methylation is associated with silencing or switching off transcription
Which residues are often methylated in mammals?
C residues followed by G
Which residues escape methylation in mammals (hypomethylation)?
C residues in CpG islands