Question

The DNA sequence located upstream to a gene sequence where DNA polymerase binds is known as

• A. Repressor
• B. Binder
• C. Promoter
• D. Terminator

Hint:

The promoter is the DNA sequence located upstream of a gene that "promotes" gene expression by serving as the initial binding site for RNA polymerase.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Gene transcription is regulated by specific DNA sequences located upstream of the coding region, which serve as binding sites for the transcriptional machinery.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The question contains a minor typographical error, using "DNA polymerase" instead of "RNA polymerase," as RNA polymerase is the enzyme that initiates gene transcription by binding to the upstream region.
The DNA sequence located upstream of a gene's coding region where the transcription initiation complex (including RNA polymerase and associated transcription factors) binds is called the promoter.
The promoter contains specific conserved consensus sequences (such as the TATA box in eukaryotes or the Pribnow box in prokaryotes) that orient the polymerase and designate the correct transcription start site.
A repressor (A) is a regulatory protein that binds to an operator sequence to block transcription, rather than a DNA sequence where the polymerase binds.
A terminator (D) is a DNA sequence located downstream of the gene that signals the end of transcription.
"Binder" (B) is not a recognized genetic regulatory element.
Therefore, the correct sequence is the promoter.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The promoter is the binding sequence, corresponding to option (C).