To function as a repressor-binding site, the iron response element (IRE) must be within the first 70 nucleotides of the ferritin mRNA. This suggests that protein binding to this IRE
A) regulates message degradation.
B) interferes with the 5ʹ cap binding to the ribosome.
C) blocks the translation start site.
D) inhibits the binding of eEF2.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The iron response element (IRE) within the first 70 nucleotides of the ferritin mRNA suggests that protein binding to this site likely interferes with the 5ʹ cap binding to the ribosome, as this region is critical for the initiation of translation. Blocking the 5ʹ cap would prevent the ribosome from properly attaching to the mRNA, thereby inhibiting translation initiation.

To Function as a Repressor-Binding Site, the Iron Response Element