The Primary Difference Between an Enhancer and a Promoter- Proximal

Question

The primary difference between an enhancer and a promoter- proximal element is that
A) enhancers are part of the promoter, while promoter- proximal elements are regulatory sequences distinct from the promoter.
B) enhancers are transcription factors, while promoter- proximal elements are DNA sequences.
C) enhancers are at considerable distances from the promoter and can be moved or inverted and still function, while promoter- proximal elements are close to the promoter and their position and orientation must be maintained.
D) enhancers enhance transcription, while promoter- proximal elements inhibit transcription.
E) enhancers are DNA sequences, while promoter- proximal elements are proteins that bind proximal to the promoter.

Accepted Answer

Enhancers and promoter-proximal elements are both regulatory sequences that control the transcription of genes. However, enhancers are typically located far away from the promoter, while promoter-proximal elements are located close to the promoter. Enhancers can function even when they are moved or inverted, while the position and orientation of promoter-proximal elements must be maintained for proper transcriptional regulation. Therefore, the primary difference between enhancers and promoter-proximal elements is their location and their ability to function when moved or inverted.