What is the process called that converts the genetic information stored in DNA to an RNA copy? a. Translocation b. Translation c. Transcription d. Replication

The correct answer is: c. Transcription

Transcription is the first step of gene expression in which DNA molecule is copied (transcribed) into RNA (mRNA) by RNA polymerase. The process of transcription is divided into three phases:

1. Initiation

• RNA polymerase with transcriptional factors bind to gene promoter

• RNA polymerase unwinds DNA double helix (transcription bubble is formed)

2. Elongation

• RNA polymerases adds nucleotides complementary to DNA

3. Termination

• RNA polymerase gets to stop codon (transcribes a sequence of DNA known as a terminator)

• Formed complementary RNA strand is released from DNA-RNA complex