Rho factor is a homohexameric RNA helicase. According to the provided reference, it binds to nascent RNA, translocates along the strand, and causes dissociation of the newly synthesized mRNA from the elongation complex at specific cytosine-rich sequences.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Enzyme Type | RNA Helicase |
| Structure | Homohexameric |
| Function | Terminates transcription by unwinding RNA-DNA duplexes and releasing mRNA from the RNA polymerase complex. |
| Binding Site | Nascent RNA, specifically at cytosine-rich sequences. |
| Mechanism | Translocates along the RNA strand to disrupt the RNA polymerase and release the mRNA. |
Essentially, Rho utilizes its helicase activity to unwind the RNA-DNA hybrid within the transcription bubble, leading to the termination of transcription.
