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Lopez Martinez D, Svejstrup JQ. Mechanisms of RNA Polymerase II Termination at the 3'-End of Genes. J Mol Biol 2024:168735. [PMID: 39098594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) is responsible for the synthesis of a diverse set of RNA molecules, including protein-coding messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and many short non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). For this purpose, RNAPII relies on a multitude of factors that regulate the transcription cycle, from initiation and promoter-proximal pausing, through elongation and finally termination. RNAPII transcription termination at the end of genes ensures the release of RNAPII from the DNA template and its efficient recycling for further rounds of transcription. Termination of RNAPII is tightly coupled to 3'-end mRNA processing, which constitutes an important trigger for the subsequent transcription termination event. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of RNAPII termination mechanisms, focusing on 'canonical' termination at the 3'-end of genes. We also integrate the allosteric and 'torpedo' models into a unified model of termination, and describe the different termination factors that have been identified to date, paying special attention to the human factors and their mechanism of action at the molecular level. Indeed, in recent years the development of novel approaches in structural biology, biochemistry and cell biology have together led to a more detailed comprehension of the different mechanisms of RNAPII termination, and a better understanding of their importance in regulating gene expression, especially under cellular stress and pathological situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Lopez Martinez
- Centre for Gene Expression, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jesper Q Svejstrup
- Centre for Gene Expression, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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2
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Carmo C, Coelho J, Silva RD, Tavares A, Boavida A, Gaetani P, Guilgur LG, Martinho RG, Oliveira RA. A dual-function SNF2 protein drives chromatid resolution and nascent transcripts removal in mitosis. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e56463. [PMID: 37462213 PMCID: PMC10481674 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202256463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitotic chromatin is largely assumed incompatible with transcription due to changes in the transcription machinery and chromosome architecture. However, the mechanisms of mitotic transcriptional inactivation and their interplay with chromosome assembly remain largely unknown. By monitoring ongoing transcription in Drosophila early embryos, we reveal that eviction of nascent mRNAs from mitotic chromatin occurs after substantial chromosome compaction and is not promoted by condensin I. Instead, we show that the timely removal of transcripts from mitotic chromatin is driven by the SNF2 helicase-like protein Lodestar (Lds), identified here as a modulator of sister chromatid cohesion defects. In addition to the eviction of nascent transcripts, we uncover that Lds cooperates with Topoisomerase 2 to ensure efficient sister chromatid resolution and mitotic fidelity. We conclude that the removal of nascent transcripts upon mitotic entry is not a passive consequence of cell cycle progression and/or chromosome compaction but occurs via dedicated mechanisms with functional parallelisms to sister chromatid resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - João Coelho
- Instituto Gulbenkian de CiênciaOeirasPortugal
| | - Rui D Silva
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC‐RI) and Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB)Universidade do AlgarveFaroPortugal
| | | | - Ana Boavida
- Instituto Gulbenkian de CiênciaOeirasPortugal
- Present address:
Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle RicercheNaplesItaly
| | | | | | - Rui Gonçalo Martinho
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC‐RI) and Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB)Universidade do AlgarveFaroPortugal
- Department of Medical Sciences (DCM) and Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED)Universidade de AveiroAveiroPortugal
| | - Raquel A Oliveira
- Instituto Gulbenkian de CiênciaOeirasPortugal
- Católica Biomedical Research Centre, Católica Medical SchoolUniversidade Católica PortuguesaLisbonPortugal
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3
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De Luca A, Tosolini A, Russo P, Severino A, Baldi A, De Luca L, Cavallotti I, Baldi F, Giordano A, Testa JR, Paggi MG. Cyclin T2A Gene Maps on Human Chromosome 2q21. J Histochem Cytochem 2016; 49:693-8. [PMID: 11373316 DOI: 10.1177/002215540104900603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin T2a was recently identified as one of the regulatory subunits of the cdk–cyclin complex P-TEFb, the most studied positive factor in the regulation of transcription elongation. By fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), the gene codifying for cyclin T2a has been mapped on human chromosome 2q21. This locus also has been linked to different forms of myopathy. By use of a new specific antiserum raised against cyclin T2a, the immunohistochemical pattern of expression of cyclin T2a in human tissues has been examined and compared to that of cyclin T1, described in the previous report. The observation that immunohistochemical expression of cyclin T2a was high in skeletal muscle cells, whereas it was undetectable in two cases of centronuclear myopathy, together with its chromosomal location, suggests an involvement of the cdk9–cyclin T2a complex in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A De Luca
- Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, CRS, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
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4
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Hindman R, Gollnick P. Nucleoside Triphosphate Phosphohydrolase I (NPH I) Functions as a 5' to 3' Translocase in Transcription Termination of Vaccinia Early Genes. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:14826-38. [PMID: 27189950 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.730135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccinia virus early genes are transcribed immediately upon infection. Nucleoside triphosphate phosphohydrolase I (NPH I) is an essential component of the early gene transcription complex. NPH I hydrolyzes ATP to release transcripts during transcription termination. The ATPase activity of NPH I requires single-stranded (ss) DNA as a cofactor; however, the source of this cofactor within the transcription complex is not known. Based on available structures of transcription complexes it has been hypothesized that the ssDNA cofactor is obtained from the unpaired non-template strand within the transcription bubble. In vitro transcription on templates that lack portions of the non-template strand within the transcription bubble showed that the upstream portion of the transcription bubble is required for efficient NPH I-mediated transcript release. Complementarity between the template and non-template strands in this region is also required for NPH I-mediated transcript release. This observation complicates locating the source of the ssDNA cofactor within the transcription complex because removal of the non-template strand also disrupts transcription bubble reannealing. Prior studies have shown that ssRNA binds to NPH I, but it does not activate ATPase activity. Chimeric transcription templates with RNA in the non-template strand confirm that the source of the ssDNA cofactor for NPH I is the upstream portion of the non-template strand in the transcription bubble. Consistent with this conclusion we also show that isolated NPH I acts as a 5' to 3' translocase on single-stranded DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Hindman
- From the Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14260-4610
| | - Paul Gollnick
- From the Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14260-4610
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5
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An RNAi-Based Candidate Screen for Modifiers of the CHD1 Chromatin Remodeler and Assembly Factor in Drosophila melanogaster. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2015; 6:245-54. [PMID: 26596648 PMCID: PMC4751545 DOI: 10.1534/g3.115.021691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The conserved chromatin remodeling and assembly factor CHD1 (chromodomains, helicase, DNA-binding domain) is present at active genes where it participates in histone turnover and recycling during transcription. In order to gain a more complete understanding of the mechanism of action of CHD1 during development, we created a novel genetic assay in Drosophila melanogaster to evaluate potential functional interactions between CHD1 and other chromatin factors. We found that overexpression of CHD1 results in defects in wing development and utilized this fully penetrant and reliable phenotype to conduct a small-scale RNAi-based candidate screen to identify genes that functionally interact with chd1 in vivo. Our results indicate that CHD1 may act in opposition to other remodeling factors, including INO80, and that the recruitment of CHD1 to active genes by RTF1 is conserved in flies.
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6
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiannan Guo
- Biochemistry Department, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
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7
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Aygün O, Xu X, Liu Y, Takahashi H, Kong SE, Conaway RC, Conaway JW, Svejstrup JQ. Direct inhibition of RNA polymerase II transcription by RECQL5. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:23197-203. [PMID: 19570979 PMCID: PMC2749093 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.015750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA helicases of the RECQ family are important for maintaining genome integrity, from bacteria to humans. Although progress has been made in understanding the biochemical role of some human RECQ helicases, that of RECQL5 remains elusive. We recently reported that RECQL5 interacts with RNA polymerase II (RNAPII), pointing to a role for the protein in transcription. Here, we show that RECQL5 inhibits both initiation and elongation in transcription assays reconstituted with highly purified general transcription factors and RNAPII. Such inhibition is not observed with the related, much more active RECQL1 helicase or with a version of RECQL5 that has normal helicase activity but is impaired in its ability to interact with RNAPII. Indeed, RECQL5 helicase activity is not required for inhibition. We discuss our findings in light of the fact that RECQ5−/− mice have elevated levels of DNA recombination and a higher incidence of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozan Aygün
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, Clare Hall Laboratories, Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, Blanche Lane, South Mimms, Hertfordshire EN6 3LD, United Kingdom
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8
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Cheng B, Price DH. Isolation and functional analysis of RNA polymerase II elongation complexes. Methods 2009; 48:346-52. [PMID: 19409997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2009.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2008] [Revised: 01/23/2009] [Accepted: 02/26/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The elongation phase of transcription by RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) is tightly controlled by a large number of transcription elongation factors. Here we describe experimental approaches for the isolation of RNAPII elongation complexes in vitro and the use of these complexes in the examination of the function of a variety of factors. The methods start with formation of elongation complexes on DNA templates immobilized to paramagnetic beads. Elongation is halted by removing the nucleotides and the ternary elongation complexes are then stripped of factors by a high salt wash. The effect of any factor or mixture of factors on elongation is determined by adding the factor(s) along with nucleotides and observing the change in the pattern of RNAs generated. Association of a factor with elongation complexes can be examined using an elongation complex-electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EC-EMSA) in which elongation complexes that have been liberated from the beads are analyzed on a native gel. Besides being used to dissect the mechanisms of elongation control, these experimental systems are useful for analyzing the function of termination factors and mRNA processing factors. Together these experimental systems permit detailed characterization of the molecular mechanisms of elongation, termination, and mRNA processing factors by providing information concerning both physical interactions with and functional consequences of the factors on RNAPII elongation complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Cheng
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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9
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Cheng B, Price DH. Analysis of factor interactions with RNA polymerase II elongation complexes using a new electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Nucleic Acids Res 2008; 36:e135. [PMID: 18832375 PMCID: PMC2582608 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkn630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2008] [Revised: 09/09/2008] [Accepted: 09/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The elongation phase of transcription by RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) is controlled by a carefully orchestrated series of interactions with both negative and positive factors. However, due to the limitations of current methods and techniques, not much is known about whether and how these proteins physically associate with the engaged polymerases. To gain insight into the detailed mechanisms involved, we established an experimental system for analyzing direct factor interactions to RNAP II elongation complexes on native gels, namely elongation complex electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EC-EMSA). This new assay effectively allowed detection of interactions of TFIIF, TTF2, TFIIS, DSIF and P-TEFb with elongation complexes generated from a natural promoter using an immobilized template. As an application of this assay system, we characterized the association of transcription elongation factor DSIF with RNAP II elongation complexes and discovered that the nascent transcript facilitated recruitment of DSIF. Examples of how the system can be manipulated to address different questions are provided. EC-EMSA should be useful for further investigation of factor interactions with RNAP II elongation complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Cheng
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program and Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - David H. Price
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program and Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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10
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Adamson TE, Shutt DC, Price DH. Functional coupling of cleavage and polyadenylation with transcription of mRNA. J Biol Chem 2005; 280:32262-71. [PMID: 16041059 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m505532200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cleavage and polyadenylation define the 3' ends of almost all eukaryotic mRNAs and are thought to occur during transcription. We describe a human in vitro system utilizing an immobilized template, in which transcripts in RNA polymerase II elongation complexes are efficiently cleaved and polyadenylated. Because the cleavage rate of free RNA is much slower, we conclude that cleavage is functionally coupled to transcription. Inhibition of positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) had only a modest negative effect on cleavage, as long as transcripts were long enough to contain the polyadenylation signal. In contrast, removal of the carboxyl-terminal domain of the large subunit of RNA polymerase II had a dramatic negative effect on cleavage. Unexpectedly, the 5' portion of transcript after cleavage remained associated with the template in a functional, polyadenylation-competent complex. Efficient cleavage required 5' capping by the human capping enzyme, but the reduction of cleavage seen of transcripts in COOH-terminal domain-less polymerase elongation complexes, was not because of lack of capping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd E Adamson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, 52242, USA
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11
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Jiang Y, Liu M, Spencer CA, Price DH. Involvement of transcription termination factor 2 in mitotic repression of transcription elongation. Mol Cell 2004; 14:375-85. [PMID: 15125840 DOI: 10.1016/s1097-2765(04)00234-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2004] [Revised: 03/03/2004] [Accepted: 03/09/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
All nuclear transcription is interrupted during mitosis. We examined the role of human TTF2, an RNA polymerase (Pol) I and II termination factor, in mitotic repression of transcription elongation. We find that TTF2 levels rise in the cytoplasm in S and G2 and at the onset of mitosis TTF2 translocates into the nucleus. Consistent with a role in termination of all transcription, TTF2 is the only ATP-dependent termination activity associated with Pol II transcription elongation complexes, is largely unaffected by template position, and is impervious to the phosphorylation state of the polymerase. Cells in which TTF2 levels are knocked down showed dramatic retention of Ser2 phosphorylated Pol II on mitotic chromosomes and an increase in chromosome segregation defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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12
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Selby CP, Sancar A. Characterization of transcription-repair coupling factors in E. coli and humans. Methods Enzymol 2004; 371:300-24. [PMID: 14712710 DOI: 10.1016/s0076-6879(03)71023-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C P Selby
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7260, USA
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13
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Barak O, Lazzaro MA, Lane WS, Speicher DW, Picketts DJ, Shiekhattar R. Isolation of human NURF: a regulator of Engrailed gene expression. EMBO J 2004; 22:6089-100. [PMID: 14609955 PMCID: PMC275440 DOI: 10.1093/emboj/cdg582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The modification of chromatin structure is an important regulatory mechanism for developmental gene expression. Differential expression of the mammalian ISWI genes, SNF2H and SNF2L, has suggested that they possess distinct developmental roles. Here we describe the purification and characterization of the first human SNF2L-containing complex. The subunit composition suggests that it represents the human ortholog of the Drosophila nucleosome-remodeling factor (NURF) complex. Human NURF (hNURF) is enriched in brain, and we demonstrate that it regulates human Engrailed, a homeodomain protein that regulates neuronal development in the mid-hindbrain. Furthermore, we show that hNURF potentiates neurite outgrowth in cell culture. Taken together, our data suggess a role for an ISWI complex in neuronal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orr Barak
- The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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14
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Richardson JP. Rho-dependent termination and ATPases in transcript termination. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2002; 1577:251-260. [PMID: 12213656 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4781(02)00456-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor Rho is a ring-shaped, homohexameric protein that causes transcript termination through actions on nascent RNAs that are coupled to ATP hydrolysis. The Rho polypeptide has a distinct RNA-binding domain (RNA-BD) of known structure as well as an ATP-binding domain (ATP-BD) for which a structure has been proposed based on homology modeling. A model is proposed in which Rho first makes an interaction with a nascent RNA on a C-rich, primarily single-stranded rut region of the transcript as that region emerges from the exit site of RNA polymerase. A subsequent step involves a temporary release of one subunit of the hexamer to allow the 3' segment of the nascent transcript to enter the central channel of the Rho ring. Actions of the Rho structure in the channel on the 3' segment that are coupled to ATP hydrolysis pull the RNA from its contacts with the template and RNA polymerase, thus causing termination of its synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Richardson
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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15
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González-Barrera S, Prado F, Verhage R, Brouwer J, Aguilera A. Defective nucleotide excision repair in yeast hpr1 and tho2 mutants. Nucleic Acids Res 2002; 30:2193-201. [PMID: 12000839 PMCID: PMC115280 DOI: 10.1093/nar/30.10.2193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleotide excision repair (NER) and transcription are intimately related. First, TFIIH has a dual role in transcription initiation and NER and, secondly, transcription leads to more efficient repair of damage present in transcribed sequences. It is thought that elongating RNAPII, stalled at a DNA lesion, is used for the loading of the NER machinery in a process termed transcription-coupled repair (TCR). Non-transcribed regions are repaired by the so-called global genome repair (GGR). We have previously defined a number of yeast genes, whose deletions confer transcription-dependent hyper-recombination phenotypes. As these mutations cause impairment of transcription elongation we have assayed whether they also affect DNA repair. We show that null mutations of the HPR1 and THO2 genes, encoding two prominent proteins of the THO complex, increase UV sensitivity of yeast cells lacking GGR. Consistent with this result, molecular analyses of DNA repair of the RPB2 transcribed strand using T4 endo V show that hpr1 and tho2 do indeed impair TCR. However, this effect is not confined to TCR alone because the mutants are slightly affected in GGR. These results indicate that THO affects both transcription and NER. We discuss different alternatives to explain the effect of the THO complex on DNA repair.
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MESH Headings
- Blotting, Northern
- Cell Cycle Proteins
- DNA Repair/genetics
- DNA, Fungal/genetics
- DNA, Fungal/metabolism
- DNA, Fungal/radiation effects
- DNA-Binding Proteins
- Deoxyribonuclease (Pyrimidine Dimer)
- Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
- Endodeoxyribonucleases/metabolism
- Fungal Proteins/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal/radiation effects
- Genotype
- Mating Factor
- Mutation
- Nuclear Proteins
- Peptides/genetics
- Protein Subunits
- RNA Polymerase II/genetics
- RNA, Fungal/genetics
- RNA, Fungal/metabolism
- RNA, Fungal/radiation effects
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae/radiation effects
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins
- Schizosaccharomyces pombe Proteins
- Transcription Factors/genetics
- Transcription, Genetic
- UDPglucose-Hexose-1-Phosphate Uridylyltransferase/genetics
- Ultraviolet Rays
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio González-Barrera
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avd. Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
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16
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Renner DB, Yamaguchi Y, Wada T, Handa H, Price DH. A highly purified RNA polymerase II elongation control system. J Biol Chem 2001; 276:42601-9. [PMID: 11553615 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m104967200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Studying the sensitivity of transcription to the nucleotide analog 5,6-dichloro-1-beta-d-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole has led to the discovery of a number of proteins involved in the regulation of transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II. We have developed a highly purified elongation control system composed of three purified proteins added back to isolated RNA polymerase II elongation complexes. Two of the proteins, 5,6-dichloro-1-beta-d-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole sensitivity-inducing factor (DSIF) and negative elongation factor (NELF), act as negative transcription elongation factors by increasing the time the polymerase spent at pause sites. P-TEFb reverses the negative effect of DSIF and NELF through a mechanism dependent on its kinase activity. TFIIF is a general initiation factor that positively affects elongation by decreasing pausing. We show that TFIIF functionally competes with DSIF and NELF, and this competition is dependent on the relative concentrations of TFIIF and NELF.
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Affiliation(s)
- D B Renner
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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17
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Marshall NF, Dahmus ME. C-terminal domain phosphatase sensitivity of RNA polymerase II in early elongation complexes on the HIV-1 and adenovirus 2 major late templates. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:32430-7. [PMID: 10938286 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m005898200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The fate of RNA polymerase II in early elongation complexes is under the control of factors that regulate and respond to the phosphorylation state of the C-terminal domain (CTD). Phosphorylation of the CTD protects early elongation complexes from negative transcription elongation factors such as NELF, DSIF, and factor 2. To understand the relationship between transcript elongation and the sensitivity of RNA polymerase IIO to dephosphorylation, elongation complexes at defined positions on the Ad2-ML and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) templates were purified, and their sensitivity to CTD phosphatase was determined. Purified elongation complexes treated with 1% Sarkosyl and paused at U(14)/G(16) on an HIV-1 template and at G(11) on the Ad2-ML template are equally sensitive to dephosphorylation by CTD phosphatase. Multiple elongation complexes paused at more promoter distal sites are more resistant to dephosphorylation than are U(14)/G(16) and G(11) complexes. The HIV-1 long terminal repeat and adenovirus 2 major late promoter do not appear to differentially influence the CTD phosphatase sensitivity of stringently washed complexes. Subsequent elongation by 1% Sarkosyl-washed U(14)/G(16) complexes is unaffected by prior CTD phosphatase treatment. This result is consistent with the hypothesis that CTD phosphatase requires the presence of specific elongation factors to propagate a negative effect on transcript elongation. The action of CTD phosphatase on elongation complexes is inhibited by HIV-1 Tat protein. This observation is consistent with the idea that Tat suppression of CTD phosphatase plays a role in transactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- N F Marshall
- Section of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
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18
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Miller T, Williams K, Johnstone RW, Shilatifard A. Identification, cloning, expression, and biochemical characterization of the testis-specific RNA polymerase II elongation factor ELL3. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:32052-6. [PMID: 10882741 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m005175200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The human ELL gene, which is a frequent target for translocation in acute myeloid leukemia, was initially isolated from rat liver nuclei and found to be an RNA polymerase II elongation factor. Based on homology to ELL, we later cloned ELL2 and demonstrated that it can also increase the catalytic rate of transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II. To better understand the role of ELL proteins in the regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II, we have initiated a search for proteins related to ELLs. In this report, we describe the molecular cloning, expression, and characterization of ELL3, a novel RNA polymerase II elongation factor approximately 50% similar to both ELL and ELL2. Our transcriptional studies have demonstrated that ELL3 can also increase the catalytic rate of transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II. The C-terminal domain of ELL, which we recently demonstrated to be required and sufficient for the immortalization of myeloid progenitor cells, shares strong similarities to the C-terminal domain of ELL3. ELL3 was localized by immunofluorescence to the nucleus of cells, and Northern analysis indicated that ELL3 is a testis-specific RNA polymerase II elongation factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Miller
- Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry, St. Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63104, USA
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19
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Affiliation(s)
- D H Price
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA.
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20
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Kireeva ML, Komissarova N, Waugh DS, Kashlev M. The 8-nucleotide-long RNA:DNA hybrid is a primary stability determinant of the RNA polymerase II elongation complex. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:6530-6. [PMID: 10692458 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.275.9.6530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The sliding clamp model of transcription processivity, based on extensive studies of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase, suggests that formation of a stable elongation complex requires two distinct nucleic acid components: an 8-9-nt transcript-template hybrid, and a DNA duplex immediately downstream from the hybrid. Here, we address the minimal composition of the processive elongation complex in the eukaryotes by developing a method for promoter-independent assembly of functional elongation complex of S. cerevisiae RNA polymerase II from synthetic DNA and RNA oligonucleotides. We show that only one of the nucleic acid components, the 8-nt RNA:DNA hybrid, is necessary for the formation of a stable elongation complex with RNA polymerase II. The double-strand DNA upstream and downstream of the hybrid does not affect stability of the elongation complex. This finding reveals a significant difference in processivity determinants of RNA polymerase II and E. coli RNA polymerase. In addition, using the imperfect RNA:DNA hybrid disturbed by the mismatches in the RNA, we show that nontemplate DNA strand may reduce the elongation complex stability via the reduction of the RNA:DNA hybrid length. The structure of a "minimal stable" elongation complex suggests a key role of the RNA:DNA hybrid in RNA polymerase II processivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Kireeva
- Advanced BioScience Laboratories, Inc.-Basic Research Program, NCI-Frederick Cancer Research and Development Center, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, USA
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21
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Lackner CA, Condit RC. Vaccinia virus gene A18R DNA helicase is a transcript release factor. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:1485-94. [PMID: 10625702 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.275.2.1485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Prior phenotypic analysis of a vaccinia virus gene A18R mutant, Cts23, showed the synthesis of longer than wild type (Wt) length viral transcripts during the intermediate stage of infection, indicating that the A18R protein may act as a negative transcription elongation factor. The purpose of the work described here was to determine a biochemical activity for the A18R protein. Pulse-labeled transcription complexes established from intermediate virus promoters on bead-bound DNA templates were assayed for transcript release during an elongation step that contained nucleotides and various proteins. Pulse-labeled transcription complexes elongated in the presence of only nucleotides were unable to release nascent RNA. The addition of Wt extract during the elongation phase resulted in release of the nascent transcript, indicating that additional factors present in the Wt extract are capable of inducing transcript release. Extract from Cts23 or mock-infected cells was unable to induce release. The lack of release upon addition of Cts23 extract suggests that A18R is involved in release of nascent RNA. By itself, purified polyhistidine-tagged A18R protein (His-A18R) was unable to induce release; however, release did occur in the presence of purified His-A18R protein plus extract from either Cts23 or mock-infected cells. These data taken together indicate that A18R is necessary but not sufficient for release of nascent transcripts. We have also demonstrated that the combination of A18R protein and mock extract induces transcript release in an ATP-dependent manner, consistent with the fact that the A18R protein is an ATP-dependent helicase. Further analysis revealed that the release activity is not restricted to a vaccinia intermediate promoter but is observed using pulse-labeled transcription complexes initiated from all three viral gene class promoters. Therefore, we conclude that A18R and an as yet unidentified cellular factor(s) are required for the in vitro release of nascent RNA from a vaccinia virus transcription elongation complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Lackner
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610-0266, USA
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22
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Ashburner M, Misra S, Roote J, Lewis SE, Blazej R, Davis T, Doyle C, Galle R, George R, Harris N, Hartzell G, Harvey D, Hong L, Houston K, Hoskins R, Johnson G, Martin C, Moshrefi A, Palazzolo M, Reese MG, Spradling A, Tsang G, Wan K, Whitelaw K, Celniker S. An exploration of the sequence of a 2.9-Mb region of the genome of Drosophila melanogaster: the Adh region. Genetics 1999; 153:179-219. [PMID: 10471707 PMCID: PMC1460734 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/153.1.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A contiguous sequence of nearly 3 Mb from the genome of Drosophila melanogaster has been sequenced from a series of overlapping P1 and BAC clones. This region covers 69 chromosome polytene bands on chromosome arm 2L, including the genetically well-characterized "Adh region." A computational analysis of the sequence predicts 218 protein-coding genes, 11 tRNAs, and 17 transposable element sequences. At least 38 of the protein-coding genes are arranged in clusters of from 2 to 6 closely related genes, suggesting extensive tandem duplication. The gene density is one protein-coding gene every 13 kb; the transposable element density is one element every 171 kb. Of 73 genes in this region identified by genetic analysis, 49 have been located on the sequence; P-element insertions have been mapped to 43 genes. Ninety-five (44%) of the known and predicted genes match a Drosophila EST, and 144 (66%) have clear similarities to proteins in other organisms. Genes known to have mutant phenotypes are more likely to be represented in cDNA libraries, and far more likely to have products similar to proteins of other organisms, than are genes with no known mutant phenotype. Over 650 chromosome aberration breakpoints map to this chromosome region, and their nonrandom distribution on the genetic map reflects variation in gene spacing on the DNA. This is the first large-scale analysis of the genome of D. melanogaster at the sequence level. In addition to the direct results obtained, this analysis has allowed us to develop and test methods that will be needed to interpret the complete sequence of the genome of this species. Before beginning a Hunt, it is wise to ask someone what you are looking for before you begin looking for it. Milne 1926
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ashburner
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, England.
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23
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Hara R, Selby CP, Liu M, Price DH, Sancar A. Human transcription release factor 2 dissociates RNA polymerases I and II stalled at a cyclobutane thymine dimer. J Biol Chem 1999; 274:24779-86. [PMID: 10455150 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.274.35.24779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase II stalled at a lesion in the transcribed strand is thought to constitute a signal for transcription-coupled repair. Transcription factors that act on RNA polymerase in elongation mode potentially influence this mode of repair. Previously, it was shown that transcription elongation factors TFIIS and Cockayne's syndrome complementation group B protein did not disrupt the ternary complex of RNA polymerase II stalled at a thymine cyclobutane dimer, nor did they enable RNA polymerase II to bypass the dimer. Here we investigated the effect of the transcription factor 2 on RNA polymerase II and RNA polymerase I stalled at thymine dimers. Transcription factor 2 is known to release transcripts from RNA polymerase II early elongation complex generated by pulse-transcription. We found that factor 2 (which is also called release factor) disrupts the ternary complex of RNA polymerase II at a thymine dimer and surprisingly exerts the same effect on RNA polymerase I. These findings show that in mammalian cells a RNA polymerase I or RNA polymerase II transcript truncated by a lesion in the template strand may be discarded unless repair is accomplished rapidly by a mechanism that does not displace stalled RNA polymerases.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hara
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
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24
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Keene RG, Mueller A, Landick R, London L. Transcriptional pause, arrest and termination sites for RNA polymerase II in mammalian N- and c-myc genes. Nucleic Acids Res 1999; 27:3173-82. [PMID: 10454615 PMCID: PMC148545 DOI: 10.1093/nar/27.15.3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Using either highly purified RNA polymerase II (pol II) elongation complexes assembled on oligo(dC)-tailed templates or promoter-initiated (extract-generated) pol II elongation complexes, the precise 3" ends of transcripts produced during transcription in vitro at several human c- and N- myc pause, arrest and termination sites were determined. Despite a low overall similarity between the entire c- and N- myc first exon sequences, many positions of pol II pausing, arrest or termination occurred within short regions of related sequence shared between the c- and N- myc templates. The c- and N- myc genes showed three general classes of sequence conservation near intrinsic pause, arrest or termination sites: (i) sites where arrest or termination occurred after the synthesis of runs of uridines (Us) preceding the transcript 3" end, (ii) sites downstream of potential RNA hairpins and (iii) sites after nucleotide addition following either a U or a C or following a combination of several pyrimidines near the transcript 3" end. The finding that regions of similarity occur near the sites of pol II pausing, arrest or termination suggests that the mechanism of c- and N- myc regulation at the level of transcript elongation may be similar and not divergent as previously proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Keene
- Department of Biology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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25
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Peng J, Liu M, Marion J, Zhu Y, Price DH. RNA polymerase II elongation control. COLD SPRING HARBOR SYMPOSIA ON QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 1999; 63:365-70. [PMID: 10384301 DOI: 10.1101/sqb.1998.63.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City 52242, USA
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26
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Yamaguchi Y, Takagi T, Wada T, Yano K, Furuya A, Sugimoto S, Hasegawa J, Handa H. NELF, a multisubunit complex containing RD, cooperates with DSIF to repress RNA polymerase II elongation. Cell 1999; 97:41-51. [PMID: 10199401 DOI: 10.1016/s0092-8674(00)80713-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 609] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
DRB is a classic inhibitor of transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II (pol II). Since DRB generally affects class II genes, factors involved in this process must play fundamental roles in pol II elongation. Recently, two elongation factors essential for DRB action were identified, namely DSIF and P-TEFb. Here we describe the identification and purification from HeLa nuclear extract of a third protein factor required for DRB-sensitive transcription. This factor, termed negative elongation factor (NELF), cooperates with DSIF and strongly represses pol II elongation. This repression is reversed by P-TEFb-dependent phosphorylation of the pol II C-terminal domain. NELF is composed of five polypeptides, the smallest of which is identical to RD, a putative RNA-binding protein of unknown function. This study reveals a molecular mechanism for DRB action and a regulatory network of positive and negative elongation factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Yamaguchi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
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27
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Abstract
Downstream elements (DSEs) with transcriptional pausing activity play an important role in transcription termination of RNA polymerase II. We have defined two such DSEs in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, one for the ura4 gene and a new one in the 3'-end region of the nmt2 gene. Although these DSEs do not have sequence homology, both are orientation specific and are composed of multiple and redundant sequence elements that work together to achieve full pausing activity. Previous studies on the nmt1 and nmt2 genes revealed that transcription extends several kilobases past the genes' poly(A) sites. We show that the insertion of either DSE immediately downstream of the nmt1 poly(A) site induces more immediate termination. nmt2 termination efficiency can be increased by moving the DSE closer to the poly(A) site. These results suggest that DSEs may be a common feature in yeast genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Aranda
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, United Kingdom
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28
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Sturm NR, Yu MC, Campbell DA. Transcription termination and 3'-End processing of the spliced leader RNA in kinetoplastids. Mol Cell Biol 1999; 19:1595-604. [PMID: 9891092 PMCID: PMC116087 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.19.2.1595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/1998] [Accepted: 11/06/1998] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Addition of a 39-nucleotide (nt) spliced leader (SL) by trans splicing is a basic requirement for all trypanosome nuclear mRNAs. The SL RNA in Leishmania tarentolae is a 96-nt precursor transcript synthesized by a polymerase that resembles polymerase II most closely. To analyze SL RNA genesis, we mutated SL RNA intron structures and sequence elements: stem-loops II and III, the Sm-binding site, and the downstream T tract. Using an exon-tagged SL RNA gene, we examined the phenotypes produced by a second-site 10-bp linker scan mutagenic series and directed mutagenesis. Here we report that transcription is terminated by the T tract, which is common to the 3' end of all kinetoplastid SL RNA genes, and that more than six T's are required for efficient termination in vivo. We describe mutants whose SL RNAs end in the T tract or appear to lack efficient termination but can generate wild-type 3' ends. Transcriptionally active nuclear extracts show staggered products in the T tract, directed by eight or more T's. The in vivo and in vitro data suggest that SL RNA transcription termination is staggered in the T tract and is followed by nucleolytic processing to generate the mature 3' end. We show that the Sm-binding site and stem-loop III structures are necessary for correct 3'-end formation. Thus, we have defined the transcription termination element for the SL RNA gene. The termination mechanism differs from that of vertebrate small nuclear RNA genes and the SL RNA homologue in Ascaris.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Sturm
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California 90095-1747, USA
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29
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Abstract
The synthesis of mature and functional messenger RNA by eukaryotic RNA polymerase II (Pol II) is a complex, multistage process requiring the cooperative action of many cellular proteins. This process, referred to collectively as the transcription cycle, proceeds via five stages: preinitiation, initiation, promoter clearance, elongation, and termination. During the past few years, fundamental studies of the elongation stage of transcription have demonstrated the existence of several families of Pol II elongation factors governing the activity of Pol II. It is now clear that the elongation stage of transcription is a critical stage for the regulation of gene expression. In fact, two of these elongation factors, ELL and elongin, have been implicated in human cancer. This article will review the proteins involved in the regulation of the elongation stage of transcription by Pol II, describing the recent experimental findings that have propelled vigorous research on the properties and function of the elongating RNA polymerase II. --Shilatifard, A. Factors regulating the transcriptional elongation activity of RNA polymerase II.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shilatifard
- Department of Biochemistry, St. Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63104, USA.
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30
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Liu M, Xie Z, Price DH. A human RNA polymerase II transcription termination factor is a SWI2/SNF2 family member. J Biol Chem 1998; 273:25541-4. [PMID: 9748214 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.273.40.25541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We obtained protein sequence information from Drosophila factor 2, an ATP-dependent RNA polymerase II transcription termination factor, and discovered that it was identical to a SWI2/SNF2 family member called lodestar. Portions of putative human and Caenorhabditis elegans homologues were found in the sequence data bases and a complete cDNA for the human factor was generated using polymerase chain reaction techniques. Recombinant human factor 2 was produced in a baculovirus expression system, purified, and characterized. Similar to the authentic Drosophila factor, the human factor displayed a strong double-stranded DNA-dependent ATPase activity that was inhibited by single-stranded DNA and exhibited RNA polymerase II termination activity. Both factors were able to work on elongation complexes from either species. We discuss the mechanism of termination by factor 2 and the implications for the role of factor 2 in cellular activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Liu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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31
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Xiang Y, Simpson DA, Spiegel J, Zhou A, Silverman RH, Condit RC. The vaccinia virus A18R DNA helicase is a postreplicative negative transcription elongation factor. J Virol 1998; 72:7012-23. [PMID: 9696793 PMCID: PMC109921 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.72.9.7012-7023.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of vaccinia virus A18R gene function results in an aberrant transcription profile termed promiscuous transcription, defined as transcription within regions of the genome which are normally transcriptionally silent late during infection. Promiscuous transcription results in an increase in the intracellular concentration of double-stranded RNA, which in turn results in activation of the cellular 2-5A pathway and subsequent RNase L-catalyzed degradation of viral and cellular RNAs. One of three hypotheses could account for promiscuous transcription: (i) reactivation of early promoters late during infection, (ii) random transcription initiation, (iii) readthrough transcription from upstream promoters. Transcriptional analysis of several viral genes, presented here, argues strongly against the first two hypotheses. We have tested the readthrough hypothesis by conducting a detailed transcriptional analysis of a region of the vaccinia virus genome which contains three early genes (M1L, M2L, and K1L) positioned directly downstream of the intermediate gene, K2L. The results show that mutation of the A18R gene results in increased readthrough transcription of the M1L gene originating from the K2L intermediate promoter. A18R mutant infection of RNase L knockout mouse fibroblast (KO3) cells does not result in 2-5A pathway activation, yet the virus mutant is defective in late viral gene expression and remains temperature sensitive. These results demonstrate that the A18R gene product is a negative transcription elongation factor for postreplicative viral genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Xiang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610-0266, USA
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32
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Peng J, Marshall NF, Price DH. Identification of a cyclin subunit required for the function of Drosophila P-TEFb. J Biol Chem 1998; 273:13855-60. [PMID: 9593731 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.273.22.13855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
P-TEFb is required for the transition from abortive elongation into productive elongation and is capable of phosphorylating the carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) of the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II. We cloned a cDNA encoding the large subunit of Drosophila P-TEFb and found the predicted protein contained a cyclin motif. We now name the large subunit cyclin T and the previously cloned small subunit (Zhu, Y. R., Peery, T., Peng, J. M., Ramanathan, Y., Marshall, N., Marshall, T., Amendt, B., Mathews, M. B., and Price, D. H. (1997) Genes Dev. 11, 2622-2632) cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9). Recombinant P-TEFb produced in baculovirus-transfected Sf9 cells exhibited 5, 6-dichloro-1-beta-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole-sensitive kinase activity similar to native P-TEFb. Kc cell nuclear extract depleted of P-TEFb failed to generate long DRB-sensitive transcripts, but this activity was restored upon addition of either native or recombinant P-TEFb. Like other CDKs, CDK9 is essentially inactive in the absence of its cyclin partner. P-TEFb containing a CDK9 mutation that knocked out the kinase activity did not function in transcription. Deletion of the carboxyl-terminal domain of cyclin T in P-TEFb reduced both the kinase and transcription activity to about 10%. The CDK-activating kinase in TFIIH was unable to activate the CTD kinase activity of P-TEFb.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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33
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Jansa P, Mason SW, Hoffmann-Rohrer U, Grummt I. Cloning and functional characterization of PTRF, a novel protein which induces dissociation of paused ternary transcription complexes. EMBO J 1998; 17:2855-64. [PMID: 9582279 PMCID: PMC1170626 DOI: 10.1093/emboj/17.10.2855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Termination of transcription by RNA polymerase I (Pol I) is a two-step process which involves pausing of elongating transcription complexes and release of both pre-rRNA and Pol I from the template. In mouse, pausing of elongation complexes is mediated by the transcription termination factor TTF-I bound to the 'Sal box' terminator downstream of the rDNA transcription unit. Dissociation of paused ternary complexes requires a cellular factor, termed PTRF for Pol I and transcript release factor. Here we describe the molecular cloning of a cDNA corresponding to murine PTRF. Recombinant PTRF is capable of dissociating ternary Pol I transcription complexes in vitro as revealed by release of both Pol I and nascent transcripts from the template. Consistent with its function in transcription termination, PTRF interacts with both TTF-I and Pol I. Moreover, we demonstrate specific binding of PTRF to transcripts containing the 3' end of pre-rRNA. Substitution of 3'-terminal uridylates by guanine residues abolishes PTRF binding and impairs release activity. The results reveal a network of protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid interactions that governs termination of Pol I transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Jansa
- Division of Molecular Biology of the Cell II, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
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34
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Peng J, Zhu Y, Milton JT, Price DH. Identification of multiple cyclin subunits of human P-TEFb. Genes Dev 1998; 12:755-62. [PMID: 9499409 PMCID: PMC316581 DOI: 10.1101/gad.12.5.755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 417] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/1998] [Accepted: 02/03/1998] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The transition from abortive into productive elongation is proposed to be controlled by a positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) through phosphorylation of the carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) of the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II. Drosophila P-TEFb was identified recently as a cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK9) paired with a cyclin subunit (cyclin T). We demonstrate here the cloning of multiple cyclin subunits of human P-TEFb (T1 and T2). Cyclin T2 has two forms (T2a and T2b) because of alternative splicing. Both cyclin T1 and T2 are ubiquitously expressed. Immunoprecipitation and immunodepletion experiments carried out on HeLa nuclear extract (HNE) indicated that cyclin T1 and T2 were associated with CDK9 in a mutually exclusive manner and that almost all CDK9 was associated with either cyclin T1 or T2. Recombinant CDK9/cyclin T1, CDK9/cyclin T2a, and CDK9/cyclin T2b produced in Sf9 cells possessed DRB-sensitive kinase activity and functioned in transcription elongation in vitro. Either cyclin T1 or T2 was required to activate CDK9, and the truncation of the carboxyl terminus of the cyclin reduced, but did not eliminate, P-TEFb activity. Cotransfection experiments indicated that all three CDK9/cyclin combinations dramatically activated the CMV promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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35
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Deng L, Shuman S. Vaccinia NPH-I, a DExH-box ATPase, is the energy coupling factor for mRNA transcription termination. Genes Dev 1998; 12:538-46. [PMID: 9472022 PMCID: PMC316528 DOI: 10.1101/gad.12.4.538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/1997] [Accepted: 12/11/1997] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Vaccinia virus RNA polymerase terminates transcription in response to a specific signal UUUUUNU in the nascent RNA. Transduction of this signal to the elongating polymerase requires a trans-acting viral termination factor (VTF/capping enzyme), and is coupled to the hydrolysis of ATP. Recent studies suggest that ATP hydrolysis is catalyzed by a novel termination protein (factor X), which is tightly associated with the elongation complex. Here, we identify factor X as NPH-I (nucleoside triphosphate phosphohydrolase-I), a virus-encoded DNA-dependent ATPase of the DExH-box family. We report that NPH-I serves two roles in transcription (1) it acts in concert with VTF/CE to catalyze release of UUUUUNU-containing nascent RNA from the elongation complex, and (2) it acts by itself as a polymerase elongation factor to facilitate readthrough of intrinsic pause sites. A mutation (K61A) in the GxGKT motif of NPH-I abolishes ATP hydrolysis and eliminates the termination and elongation factor activities. Related DExH proteins may have similar roles at postinitiation steps during cellular mRNA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Deng
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute, New York, New York 10021, USA
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36
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Xie Z, Price DH. Unusual nucleic acid binding properties of factor 2, an RNA polymerase II transcript release factor. J Biol Chem 1998; 273:3771-7. [PMID: 9452510 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.273.6.3771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila factor 2, an RNA polymerase II transcript release factor, exhibits a DNA-dependent ATPase activity (Xie, Z., and Price D. H. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 31902-31907). We examined the nucleic acid requirement and found that only double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) effectively activated the ATPase. Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) not only failed to activate the ATPase, but suppressed the dsDNA-dependent ATPase. Gel mobility shift assays showed that factor 2 formed stable complexes with dsDNA or ssDNA in the absence of ATP. However, in the presence of ATP, the interaction of factor 2 with dsDNA was destabilized, while the ssDNA-factor 2 complexes were not affected. The interaction of factor 2 with dsDNA was sensitive to increasing salt concentrations and was competed by ssDNA. In both cases, loss of binding of factor 2 to dsDNA was mirrored by a decrease in ATPase and transcript release activity, suggesting that the interaction of factor 2 with dsDNA is important in coupling the ATPase with the transcript release activity. Although the properties of factor 2 suggested that it might have helicase activity, we were unable to detect any DNA unwinding activity associated with factor 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Xie
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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37
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Xie Z, Price D. Drosophila factor 2, an RNA polymerase II transcript release factor, has DNA-dependent ATPase activity. J Biol Chem 1997; 272:31902-7. [PMID: 9395538 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.272.50.31902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila factor 2 has been identified as a component of negative transcription elongation factor (N-TEF) that causes the release of RNA polymerase II transcripts in an ATP-dependent manner (Xie, Z. and Price D. H. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 11043-11046). We show here that the transcript release activity of factor 2 requires ATP or dATP and that adenosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate) (ATPgammaS), adenosine 5'-(beta,gamma-imino)triphosphate (AMP-PNP), or other NTPs do not support the activity. Factor 2 demonstrated a strong DNA-dependent ATPase activity that correlated with its transcript release activity. At 20 microg/ml DNA, the ATPase activity of factor 2 had an apparent Km(ATP) of 28 microM and an estimated Kcat of 140 min-1. Factor 2 caused the release of nascent transcripts associated with elongation complexes generated by RNA polymerase II on a dC-tailed template. Therefore, no other protein cofactors are required for the transcript release activity of factor 2. Using the dC-tailed template assay, it was found that renaturation of the template was required for factor 2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Xie
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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Zhu Y, Pe'ery T, Peng J, Ramanathan Y, Marshall N, Marshall T, Amendt B, Mathews MB, Price DH. Transcription elongation factor P-TEFb is required for HIV-1 tat transactivation in vitro. Genes Dev 1997; 11:2622-32. [PMID: 9334325 PMCID: PMC316609 DOI: 10.1101/gad.11.20.2622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 571] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/1997] [Accepted: 08/21/1997] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
P-TEFb is a key regulator of the process controlling the processivity of RNA polymerase II and possesses a kinase activity that can phosphorylate the carboxy-terminal domain of the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II. Here we report the cloning of the small subunit of Drosophila P-TEFb and the finding that it encodes a Cdc2-related protein kinase. Sequence comparison suggests that a protein with 72% identity, PITALRE, could be the human homolog of the Drosophila protein. Functional homology was suggested by transcriptional analysis of an RNA polymerase II promoter with HeLa nuclear extract depleted of PITALRE. Because the depleted extract lost the ability to produce long DRB-sensitive transcripts and this loss was reversed by the addition of purified Drosophila P-TEFb, we propose that PITALRE is a component of human P-TEFb. In addition, we found that PITALRE associated with the activation domain of HIV-1 Tat, indicating that P-TEFb is a Tat-associated kinase (TAK). An in vitro transcription assay demonstrates that the effect of Tat on transcription elongation requires P-TEFb and suggests that the enhancement of transcriptional processivity by Tat is attributable to enhanced function of P-TEFb on the HIV-1 LTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 USA
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39
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Jones
- The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037-1099 USA.
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40
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Reines D, Dvir A, Conaway JW, Conaway RC. Assays for investigating transcription by RNA polymerase II in vitro. Methods 1997; 12:192-202. [PMID: 9237163 DOI: 10.1006/meth.1997.0471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
With the availability of the general initiation factors (TFIIB, TFIID, TFIIE, TFIIF, and TFIIH), it is now possible to investigate aspects of the mechanism of eukaryotic messenger RNA synthesis in purified, reconstituted RNA polymerase II transcription systems. Rapid progress in these investigations has been spurred by use of a growing number of assays that are proving valuable not only for dissecting the molecular mechanisms of transcription initiation and elongation by RNA polymerase II, but also for identifying and purifying novel transcription factors that regulate polymerase activity. Here we describe a variety of these assays and discuss their utility in the analysis of transcription by RNA polymerase II.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Reines
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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41
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Abstract
RNA polymerase II holoenzymes isolated from yeast and mammalian cells are large, preassembled complexes that contain some or all of the general transcription initiation factors and many other polypeptides. Recent experiments suggest that these holoenzymes may mediate alterations in chromatin structure and play a key role in regulatory mechanisms that influence transcriptional initiation, RNA chain elongation, RNA processing and transcription termination.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Greenblatt
- Banting and Best Department of Medical Research, University of Toronto, 112 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1L6.
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Shilatifard A, Conaway JW, Conaway RC. Mechanism and regulation of transcriptional elongation and termination by RNA polymerase II. Curr Opin Genet Dev 1997; 7:199-204. [PMID: 9115429 DOI: 10.1016/s0959-437x(97)80129-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Over the past year, key advances in several areas of research on the structure and function of the RNA polymerase (pol II) elongation complex have shed considerable light on the mechanisms governing the elongation stage of eukaryotic mRNA synthesis. Novel features of the regulation of elongation by DNA and RNA binding transcriptional activators have been brought to light; the mechanisms of action of elongation factors that suppress pausing and premature arrest by transcribing pol II have been defined in greater detail; and novel elongation factors implicated in human disease have been identified and characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shilatifard
- Program in Molecular and Cell Biology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73104, USA
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Mason SW, Sander EE, Grummt I. Identification of a transcript release activity acting on ternary transcription complexes containing murine RNA polymerase I. EMBO J 1997; 16:163-72. [PMID: 9009277 PMCID: PMC1169623 DOI: 10.1093/emboj/16.1.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Termination of mammalian ribosomal gene transcription by RNA polymerase I (Pol I) requires binding of the nucleolar factor TTF-I (transcription termination factor for Pol I) to specific rDNA terminator elements. We have used recombinant murine TTF-I in an immobilized tailed template assay to analyze individual steps of the termination reaction. We demonstrate that, besides the TTF-I-DNA complex which stops elongating Pol I, an additional activity is required to release both the nascent transcript and Pol I from the template. Moreover, transcript release, but not TTF-I-directed pausing, depends on upstream sequences directly flanking the terminator element. Together, complete termination of Pol I transcription requires TTF-I bound to the terminator DNA, a stretch of thymidine residues upstream of the TTF-I-mediated pause site and an activity which releases the RNA transcript and Pol I from the DNA template.
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Affiliation(s)
- S W Mason
- Division of Molecular Biology of the Cell II, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg
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44
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Abstract
Ternary complexes of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase with its DNA template and nascent transcript are central intermediates in transcription. In recent years, several unusual biochemical reactions have been discovered that affect the progression of RNA polymerase in ternary complexes through various transcription units. These reactions can be signaled intrinsically, by nucleic acid sequences and the RNA polymerase, or extrinsically, by protein or other regulatory factors. These factors can affect any of these processes, including promoter proximal and promoter distal pausing in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and therefore play a central role in regulation of gene expression. In eukaryotic systems, at least two of these factors appear to be related to cellular transformation and human cancers. New models for the structure of ternary complexes, and for the mechanism by which they move along DNA, provide plausible explanations for novel biochemical reactions that have been observed. These models predict that RNA polymerase moves along DNA without the constant possibility of dissociation and consequent termination. A further prediction of these models is that the polymerase can move in a discontinuous or inchworm-like manner. Many direct predictions of these models have been confirmed. However, one feature of RNA chain elongation not predicted by the model is that the DNA sequence can determine whether the enzyme moves discontinuously or monotonically. In at least two cases, the encounter between the RNA polymerase and a DNA block to elongation appears to specifically induce a discontinuous mode of synthesis. These findings provide important new insights into the RNA chain elongation process and offer the prospect of understanding many significant biological regulatory systems at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Uptain
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeley 94720, USA.
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Marshall NF, Peng J, Xie Z, Price DH. Control of RNA polymerase II elongation potential by a novel carboxyl-terminal domain kinase. J Biol Chem 1996; 271:27176-83. [PMID: 8900211 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.271.43.27176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 506] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The entry of RNA polymerase II into a productive mode of elongation is controlled, in part, by the postinitiation activity of positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) (Marshall, N. F., and Price, D. H. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 12335-12338). We report here that removal of the carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) of the large subunit of RNA polymerase II abolishes productive elongation. Correspondingly, we found that P-TEFb can phosphorylate the CTD of pure RNA polymerase II. Furthermore, P-TEFb can phosphorylate the CTD of RNA polymerase II when the polymerase is in an early elongation complex. Both the function and kinase activity of P-TEFb are blocked by the drugs 5, 6-dichloro-1-beta-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole (DRB) and H-8. P-TEFb is distinct from transcription factor IIH (TFIIH) because the two factors have no subunits in common, P-TEFb is more sensitive to DRB than is TFIIH, and most importantly, TFIIH cannot substitute functionally for P-TEFb. We propose that phosphorylation of the CTD by P-TEFb controls the transition from abortive into productive elongation mode.
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Affiliation(s)
- N F Marshall
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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