Question

How many of the following statements are correct with respect to transcription?

i) Both the strands of DNA function as template for transcription

ii) The transcribed strand separates from the template strand

iii) A primer is required for transcription

iv) A double stranded RNA is formed after transcription

v) RNA polymerase catalyses the process of transcription

Answer 1

Transcription is the process of formation of a single-stranded RNA from a double stranded DNA.

A part of the DNA double helix unwinds and one strand of the DNA acts as a template strand (polarity 3'→5')

The enzyme required for copying genetic information from one strand of DNA into RNA (transcription) is DNA dependent RNA polymerase.

The newly formed single-stranded mRNA separates from the template strand after transcription.

A primer is a short sequence of nucleotides that plays an important role in DNA replication for the synthesis of a new strand. Primer is not required for transcription.