Transcription Process Overview

Key Components

• DNA: Serves as the template for RNA synthesis.
• Transcription Factors: Essential for initiating and supporting transcription.
• RNA Polymerase: Enzyme that synthesizes RNA from DNA.
• ATP: Provides energy for transcription.

Important Regions of DNA

• Transcription Unit: Section of DNA that is transcribed into RNA.
• TATA Box: Located upstream of the transcription unit; crucial for the binding of transcription factors.
• Enhancer Region: May play a role in transcription regulation by increasing transcription efficiency.

Transcription Factors

• TF2D: The largest general transcription factor; includes TBP.
  • TBP (TATA-binding protein): Binds to the TATA box to position TF2D correctly.
• TF2A and TF2B: Additional factors that attach to further prepare DNA.

Transcription Complex Formation

1. Initial Binding: TBP binds to the TATA box.
2. Additional Factors: TF2A and TF2B bind to the DNA.
3. RNA Polymerase Binding: RNA polymerase attaches to the transcription complex.
4. Completion: Other transcription factors join to complete the mature transcription complex.

Energy Requirement

• ATP Reduction: ATP is reduced to ADP and PI, providing energy for transcription.

RNA Synthesis

• RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from the DNA template.
• Most transcription factors dissociate post-initiation.

Termination of Transcription

• End of Transcription Unit: Signals RNA polymerase to dissociate.
• Release of RNA: The completed RNA strand is released from the complex.