#Id: 6318
#Unit 3. Fundamental Processes
Rho binds to a sequence within the transcript upstream of the site of termination. This sequence is called a rut site (an acronym for rho utilization).
The rho factor then tracks along the RNA until it catches up to RNA polymerase. When the RNA polymerase reaches the termination site, rho first freezes the structure of the polymerase and then invades the exit channel to destabilize the enzyme, causing it to release the RNA.