To determine what has a greater influence on protein levels, we should consider the roles of polymerase affinity and positive transcription factor affinity in gene expression.
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Polymerase affinity is crucial because RNA polymerase must bind to the DNA to transcribe mRNA. If RNA polymerase does not bind effectively, transcription cannot occur, which means no mRNA will be produced, and consequently, no protein will be synthesized.
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Positive transcription factors play a vital role by helping to recruit RNA polymerase to the promoter region and ensuring that genes are turned on. Without these factors, even if RNA polymerase is present, transcription may not occur efficiently.
In summary, polymerase affinity is essential for transcription to take place, while positive transcription factors help facilitate that process. However, without polymerase binding, transcription (and thus protein synthesis) cannot occur at all.
Given these considerations, the most accurate response is:
Polymerase affinity has a greater influence because you cannot start reading mRNA without it.
This highlights the fundamental requirement of polymerase in initiating the transcription process, which is necessary for protein levels to increase.
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