Which factors influence transcription beyond the core promoter in eukaryotes?

• A. TATA box and CAAT box
• B. Promoterless sequences
• C. Ribosomal RNA genes
• D. Enhancers and promoter-proximal elements also influence transcription

Answer: (D)

Transcription in eukaryotes is controlled by regulatory DNA elements that extend beyond the core promoter. While the core promoter provides the minimal signals for RNA polymerase II to start transcription, additional sequences influence how much and when transcription occurs. Enhancers can be located far from the gene and still boost transcription by binding activator proteins that interact with the transcription machinery through DNA looping and coactivators like Mediator. Promoter-proximal elements, situated near the transcription start site, supply binding sites for factors that modulate initiation, pausing, or elongation, further tuning expression in response to signals and in different cell types. Together, these elements shape the precise expression patterns beyond the basal activity established by the core promoter, which is why this option best captures factors that influence transcription beyond the core promoter.