Reference no: EM132598198

ARTICLE #4: Scientists reveal how cell corrects errors made in genetranscription

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160503131359.htm

Source: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

RNA polymerase II (Pol II), a key enzyme in our gene expression, is responsible for transcribing DNA into messenger RNA.

Transcription infidelity may result in aging and human diseases such as cancer. During transcription, Pol II can detect the mis-incorporated RNA and backtrack to correct errors erroneous mRNA into protein.

Errors in transcription can cause deleterious effect upon repeated translation of to ensure that each messenger RNA created will match with template DNA. However, it remains largely a mystery how Pol II controls the fidelity of gene transcription.

"Our results will provide insight into the fundamental mechanisms of transcription, and open up perspectives for understanding human diseases and aging problems related to transcription infidelity," said Huang. "We could also go beyond the one-nucleotide backtracking event and study the backtracking mechanisms for two or even more RNA 3'-end nucleotides, which may give insight into the molecular mechanisms of the transcriptional pausing and arrest.

a) Give 2 examples learned in BIO 151 for how mutations in mRNA could negatively impact / change translation too proteins.

b) Not all mutations in mRNA, though, impact translation. What are these types of mutations called?

2) When talking about nucleotides, what does 3' mean? What are the general directionalities for which RNA Polymerase operates and mRNA is formed?