What is the final step in the process of transcription?

The final step in the process of transcription is termination. During transcription, which is the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template, there are three main stages: initiation, elongation, and termination.

In the initiation phase, RNA polymerase binds to the promoter region of the gene, unwinding the DNA strands to begin transcription. The elongation phase follows, where RNA polymerase moves along the DNA template strand, synthesizing a complementary RNA strand by adding RNA nucleotides.

Once RNA synthesis reaches a specific sequence in the DNA, known as the terminator sequence, the process enters the termination stage. In this phase, the RNA polymerase enzyme detaches from the DNA when it encounters the terminator signal, resulting in the release of the newly synthesized RNA molecule. This is crucial because it signifies the completion of the transcription process, allowing the RNA to undergo further processing before it can be translated into a protein.

Understanding termination is essential as it plays a critical role in ensuring that transcription is properly concluded, and influences the regulation of gene expression.