Which Property Does NOT Apply to RNA Polymerase from E

Question

Which property does NOT apply to RNA polymerase from E. coli (core enzyme alone)?
A) It can extend an RNA chain and initiate a new chain.
B) It is required for the synthesis of mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA in E. coli.
C) It produces an RNA polymer that begins with a 5'-triphosphate.
D) It recognizes specific start signals in DNA.
E) It requires all four ribonucleoside triphosphates and a DNA template.

Accepted Answer

The core enzyme of RNA polymerase from E. coli requires a sigma factor to recognize specific start signals in DNA; without it, the core enzyme alone cannot initiate transcription at specific sites.