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Sigma Factor

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Sigma factor is a subunit that joins prokaryotic RNA polymerase and directs it to recognize a promoter's specific consensus sequence.

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Sigma factor recognizes conserved sequences upstream of a gene, positioning RNA polymerase to begin transcription at the correct start site.

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Sigma factor is needed for promoter recognition only — it detaches once transcription is underway, leaving the core polymerase to continue alone.