Transcription bubble

A transcription bubble is a molecular structure that occurs during the transcription or replication of DNA when DNA helicase and DNA topoisomerase "unzip" the DNA double strand. DNA polymerase or RNA polymerase (Main Articles: DNA replication, transcription) may then bind to the exposed DNA and begin synthesizing a new strand of DNA or RNA. As DNA and/or RNA polymerase progresses down the DNA strand in the 5' to 3' direction, more of the DNA double strand is unwound, creating a replication or transcription bubble in the process that may be seen with specialized staining techniques and microscopy.

Additional recommended knowledge

Safe Weighing Range Ensures Accurate Results

Daily Sensitivity Test

Guide to balance cleaning: 8 simple steps

See also: Okazaki fragment, primase, transcription factors, replication initiation complex, transcription initiation