In prokaryotes, which subunit of the RNA polymerase holoenzyme is essential for promoter recognition and initiation specificity?
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Correct answer: Sigma factor (σ)
The sigma (σ) factor confers promoter specificity on RNA polymerase, guiding it to bind the -10 and -35 consensus sequences. After transcription initiation and synthesis of a short RNA, the sigma factor is released from the core enzyme.
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