Question Details

What is the role of RNA polymerase III in the process of transcription in eukaryotes ?

Options

A

Transcribes rRNAs (28S, 18S and 5.8S)

B

Transcribes tRNA, 5s rRNA and snRNA

C

Transcribes precursor of mRNA

D

Transcribes only snRNAs

Show Answer

Correct Answer :

Option B

Transcribes tRNA, 5s rRNA and snRNA

Transcribes tRNA, 5s rRNA and snRNA

Solution :

The correct answer is: Transcribes tRNA, 5s rRNA and snRNA


Step-by-step Explanation:

In eukaryotic cells, transcription is carried out by three distinct types of RNA polymerase enzymes, each responsible for transcribing a specific set of genes:

1. RNA Polymerase I: This enzyme is located in the nucleolus and is responsible for transcribing the precursor of ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), which are processed into the 28S, 18S, and 5.8S rRNAs.
2. RNA Polymerase II: This enzyme transcribes the precursors of messenger RNA (mRNA), also known as heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA), as well as most small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) and microRNAs.
3. RNA Polymerase III: This enzyme is responsible for the transcription of transfer RNAs (tRNAs), the 5S ribosomal RNA (5S rRNA), and some small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs, such as U6 snRNA).

Therefore, the specific role of RNA polymerase III in eukaryotic transcription is to transcribe tRNA, 5S rRNA, and snRNAs.

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