Question

Which of the following transcribes protein-coding genes in plants?

• A. DNA polymerase II
• B. DNA polymerase I
• C. RNA polymerase II
• D. RNA polymerase I

Hint:

RNA polymerase II is essential for the transcription of mRNA in all eukaryotic cells, including plants, and is crucial for gene expression and protein synthesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In plants, RNA polymerase II is the enzyme responsible for transcribing protein-coding genes. It synthesizes messenger RNA (mRNA) that carries the genetic information needed for protein synthesis from the DNA to the ribosome. RNA polymerase II plays a crucial role in the transcription of most protein-coding genes in the nucleus.

(1) RNA Polymerase II:
- RNA polymerase II is specifically involved in the transcription of mRNA for protein-coding genes. It is essential for gene expression in eukaryotic cells, including plants.

(2) Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- DNA polymerase II (Option 1) is involved in DNA repair and replication but does not transcribe genes.
- DNA polymerase I (Option 2) is involved in DNA replication and repair, but it is not responsible for transcription.
- RNA polymerase I (Option 4) transcribes ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, not protein-coding genes.

Conclusion: RNA polymerase II is the enzyme responsible for transcribing protein-coding genes in plants.