Chapter 16: Problem 10

Research indicates that promoters may fall into one of two classes: focused or dispersed. How do these classes differ, and which genes tend to be associated with each?

Short Answer

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Answer: The main difference between focused and dispersed promoters is the range of transcription initiation sites. Focused promoters have a narrow, well-defined range of initiation sites, while dispersed promoters have a broader range of potential sites. Focused promoters are often associated with genes that are tightly regulated and have specific functions, such as those involved in the cell cycle and responding to signals. Dispersed promoters are generally associated with constitutively expressed genes, like housekeeping genes that maintain basic cellular functions.

Step by step solution

Define Focused Promoters

Focused promoters are a specific class of promoters which have a well-defined, narrow range of transcription initiation sites. These promoters tend to have a precise location for transcription initiation, and transcription factors bind to these specific sites to start the transcription process.

Define Dispersed Promoters

Dispersed promoters, on the other hand, are a class of promoters where transcription can be initiated from a broad range of initiation sites. Unlike focused promoters, dispersed promoters do not have a fixed site for transcription initiation, and the transcription process can start at various positions within the promoter region.

Describe Differences between Focused and Dispersed Promoters

The key difference between focused and dispersed promoters lies in the range of transcription initiation sites. Focused promoters have a narrow, well-defined range, while dispersed promoters have a broader range of potential initiation sites. Consequently, transcription factors bind to specific sites in focused promoters, while they can bind to different positions within the promoter region for dispersed promoters.

Genes Associated with Focused Promoters

Focused promoters are often associated with genes that are tightly regulated and have a specific function. Examples include genes involved in the cell cycle and development, as well as genes that are responsive to specific signals or environmental cues.

Genes Associated with Dispersed Promoters

Dispersed promoters are typically associated with genes that are constitutively expressed, meaning they are expressed continuously and are not tightly regulated. Examples include housekeeping genes, which help maintain basic cellular functions and are crucial for the survival of the cell. In conclusion, focused and dispersed promoters differ in the range and specificity of the transcription initiation sites, and each type of promoter is associated with different types of genes based on their expression and regulation.

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Research indicates that promoters may fall into one of two classes: focused or dispersed. How do these classes differ, and which genes tend to be associated with each?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Focused Promoters

Define Dispersed Promoters

Describe Differences between Focused and Dispersed Promoters

Genes Associated with Focused Promoters

Genes Associated with Dispersed Promoters

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