Which of the Following is True About the Elongation Complex

Question

Which of the following is true about the elongation complex?
A)The clamp does not come in contact with the RNA:DNA complex.
B)Processivity is slowed by the closing of the clamp.
C)The clamp closes over the RNA:DNA hybrid in the enzyme's cleft.
D)Five loops in the clamps play a role in the movement of the enzyme.
E)The active site of the enzyme lies at the end of pore 2.

Accepted Answer

The elongation complex refers to the complex of RNA polymerase and the DNA template as transcription takes place. During transcription, the RNA polymerase closes a clamp over the RNA:DNA hybrid that forms in the enzyme's cleft to stabilize the elongation complex and prevent the RNA from dissociating prematurely. The other options (A, B, D, E) do not accurately describe the role or structure of the elongation complex.