Correct option is B
The correct answer is (2) TBP recognizes the TATA element by inserting one of its α-helices into the major groove of DNA.
Explanation: TATA Binding Protein (TBP) is an essential component of the TFIID transcription factor complex. It specifically binds to the TATA box region of DNA and plays a pivotal role in the initiation of transcription. TBP recognizes the TATA element by interacting with the minor groove of the DNA, not the major groove. The protein inserts its β-sheet structure, not an α-helix, into the minor groove of the DNA, which causes the DNA to bend. The statement in option (2) is inaccurate because it suggests that TBP inserts an α-helix into the major groove, which is not true.
Information Booster:
1. TBP is part of the TFIID complex and is crucial for initiating transcription.
2. TBP specifically binds to the TATA box region of DNA, which is typically found in the promoter region.
3. TBP's binding causes the DNA to bend, which helps in forming the transcription initiation complex.
4. The binding involves β-sheet structures, which interact with the minor groove of DNA.
5.The bending of DNA by TBP is essential for the recruitment of RNA polymerase II and other transcription factors.
6. TBP's interaction with DNA is highly specific, ensuring that transcription is initiated at the correct location.
Additional Information:
Option (1) is true because TBP is a component of the TFIID complex, and it plays a crucial role in transcription initiation.
Option (3) is true because the TBP-DNA interaction does cause DNA to bend, which is necessary for the transcription machinery.
Option (4) is true as well, as the TBP-DNA interaction does involve the side chains of phenylalanine residues of TBP, which interact with the DNA backbone, helping stabilize the interaction.


