rna polymerase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “rna polymerase” mean?
The enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from a DNA template during transcription.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from a DNA template during transcription.
In molecular biology, any of several complex enzymes that read the genetic code in DNA and produce a complementary RNA strand, a fundamental process in gene expression.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling remains identical. Pronunciation may show minor stress variation.
Connotations
Purely scientific, no cultural connotations.
Frequency
Equally rare and technical in both varieties, used only in specialist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “rna polymerase” in a Sentence
RNA polymerase [verb] the DNA templateThe [adj] RNA polymerase synthesizes RNARNA polymerase [number] is responsible for...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rna polymerase” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The RNA polymerase transcribes the gene.
- The enzyme polymerises the ribonucleotides.
American English
- RNA polymerase transcribes the DNA.
- The polymerase initiates transcription.
adverb
British English
- The gene was polymerase-dependently transcribed.
American English
- The RNA was synthesized polymerase-independently.
adjective
British English
- The RNA polymerase activity was assayed.
- A polymerase-deficient mutant was isolated.
American English
- The RNA polymerase complex is large.
- Polymerase function is essential.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Heavy usage in life sciences research papers and textbooks. E.g., 'The study focused on the inhibition of RNA polymerase II in cancer cells.'
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Primary context. Central to laboratory protocols, genetic engineering, pharmaceutical development (e.g., antibiotics like rifampicin).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “rna polymerase”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “rna polymerase”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rna polymerase”
- Using lowercase 'rna' instead of 'RNA' (an acronym).
- Misspelling 'polymerase' as 'polymersase' or 'polimerase'.
- Confusing it with 'DNA polymerase'.
- Using it without the necessary scientific context, making sentences incomprehensible to general audiences.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are different enzymes. RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA using DNA as a template (transcription), while DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA using DNA as a template (replication).
It is essential for life as it performs transcription, the first step in gene expression, converting genetic information stored in DNA into RNA molecules that can be used to make proteins or perform other functions.
Yes. In eukaryotes, RNA Polymerase I, II, and III transcribe different classes of genes (rRNA, mRNA/tRNA, and tRNA/5S rRNA etc.). Bacteria typically have a single primary RNA polymerase.
No. It is a strictly technical, scientific term confined to molecular biology, genetics, medicine, and biotechnology. It has no everyday usage.
The enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from a DNA template during transcription.
Rna polymerase is usually technical/scientific in register.
Rna polymerase: in British English it is pronounced /ɑːr ɛn eɪ pɒˈlɪməreɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɑːr ɛn eɪ pəˈlɪməˌreɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The workhorse of transcription”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: RNA Poly-mer-ase: 'Poly' (makes many) 'mer' (units) of RNA, 'ase' (it's an enzyme). It's the factory assembly line that reads DNA blueprints and manufactures RNA products.
Conceptual Metaphor
A molecular scribe or copier; a factory assembly line reading a master template (DNA) to produce a product (RNA).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of RNA polymerase?