#Id: 2307
#Unit 3. Fundamental Processes
During the transition to the open complex, the conformation of both the RNA polymerase and the DNA change.
1) 90° bend in the DNA, which allows the template strand to approach the active site of the enzyme;
2) strand opening of the promoter DNA between -11 and +3 with respect to the transcription start site;
3) the promoter DNA scrunches into the active channel forming the transcription bubble; and
4) closing of the jaws of the enzyme to encircle the section of the promoter downstream section of the transcription start site.
