What is the role of RNA polymerase III in the process of transcription in eukaryotes ?
Correct Answer :
Transcribes tRNA, 5s rRNA and snRNA
Solution :
The correct option is "Transcribes tRNA, 5s rRNA and snRNA".
To understand the role of RNA polymerase III, let us look at the division of labor among the three primary nuclear RNA polymerases in eukaryotic transcription:
1. RNA Polymerase I: This enzyme is specialized in transcribing the precursor of ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), which is later processed into the 28S, 18S, and 5.8S rRNAs. These form the structural and catalytic core of ribosomes.
2. RNA Polymerase II: This enzyme is responsible for transcribing all protein-coding genes to synthesize the precursor of messenger RNA (mRNA), also known as heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA). It also transcribes most small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) and microRNAs.
3. RNA Polymerase III: This enzyme transcribes variety of small, stable RNAs. Specifically, it is responsible for the transcription of:
- Transfer RNAs (tRNAs), which are essential for translating mRNA into proteins.
- The 5S ribosomal RNA (5S rRNA), which is a component of the large ribosomal subunit.
- Small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), specifically U6 snRNA, which are involved in splicing of pre-mRNA.
Therefore, the specific role of RNA polymerase III in eukaryotes is to transcribe tRNA, 5S rRNA, and snRNAs.
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