What is the role of RNA polymerase in the cell?

RNA polymerase plays a crucial role in the process of transcription, where it synthesizes RNA based on the information encoded in the DNA template. This process is fundamental for gene expression, as it allows the genetic instructions housed in DNA to be transformed into messenger RNA (mRNA), which then can be translated into proteins.

During transcription, RNA polymerase binds to a specific region of the DNA, unwinds the double helix, and assembles the RNA nucleotides complementary to the DNA template strand. This action results in the formation of a single-stranded RNA molecule. The accurate synthesis of RNA is essential for proper cellular function, as proteins, which perform a myriad of functions in the cell, are produced based on the sequences specified by the mRNA.

The other options reflect functions that are not performed by RNA polymerase. For instance, synthesizing DNA is the function of DNA polymerase, while DNA repair is carried out by various other enzymes and proteins in the cell. Unwinding the DNA double helix is a step that occurs during both DNA replication and transcription but is not the primary function of RNA polymerase itself. Instead, RNA polymerase initiates and carries out the synthesis of RNA from the DNA template, which is why that