1
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Shekhar AC, Wu WJ, Chen HT. Mutational and biophysical analyses reveal a TFIIIC binding region in the TFIIF-related Rpc53 subunit of RNA polymerase III. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104859. [PMID: 37230389 PMCID: PMC10404625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104859] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The TFIIF-like Rpc53/Rpc37 heterodimer of RNA polymerase (pol) III is involved in various stages of transcription. The C-terminal region of Rpc53 dimerizes with Rpc37 to anchor on the lobe domain of the pol III cleft. However, structural and functional features of the Rpc53 N-terminal region had not been characterized previously. Here, we conducted site-directed alanine replacement mutagenesis on the Rpc53 N-terminus, generating yeast strains that exhibited a cold-sensitive growth defect and severely compromised pol III transcriptional activity. Circular dichroism and NMR spectroscopy revealed a highly disordered 57-amino acid polypeptide in the Rpc53 N-terminus. This polypeptide is a versatile protein-binding module displaying nanomolar-level binding affinities for Rpc37 and the Tfc4 subunit of the transcription initiation factor TFIIIC. Accordingly, we denote this Rpc53 N-terminus polypeptide as the TFIIIC-binding region or CBR. Alanine replacements in the CBR significantly reduced its binding affinity for Tfc4, highlighting its functional importance to cell growth and transcription in vitro. Our study reveals the functional basis for Rpc53's CBR in assembly of the pol III transcription initiation complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Chandra Shekhar
- Molecular and Cell Biology, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.; Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Wen-Jin Wu
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Hung-Ta Chen
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C..
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2
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Shekhar AC, Sun YE, Khoo SK, Lin YC, Malau E, Chang WH, Chen HT. Site-directed biochemical analyses reveal that the switchable C-terminus of Rpc31 contributes to RNA polymerase III transcription initiation. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:4223-4236. [PMID: 36484109 PMCID: PMC10201443 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Rpc31 is a subunit in the TFIIE-related Rpc82/34/31 heterotrimeric subcomplex of Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNA polymerase III (pol III). Structural analyses of pol III have indicated that the N-terminal region of Rpc31 anchors on Rpc82 and further interacts with the polymerase core and stalk subcomplex. However, structural and functional information for the C-terminal region of Rpc31 is sparse. We conducted a mutational analysis on Rpc31, which uncovered a functional peptide adjacent to the highly conserved Asp-Glu-rich acidic C-terminus. This C-terminal peptide region, termed 'pre-acidic', is important for optimal cell growth, tRNA synthesis, and stable association of Rpc31 in the pre-initiation complex (PIC). Our site-directed photo-cross-linking to map protein interactions within the PIC reveal that this pre-acidic region specifically targets Rpc34 during transcription initiation, but also interacts with the DNA entry surface in free pol III. Thus, we have uncovered a switchable Rpc31 C-terminal region that functions in an initiation-specific protein interaction for pol III transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuan-En Sun
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Seok-Kooi Khoo
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yu-Chun Lin
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | | | - Wei-Hau Chang
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Hung-Ta Chen
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
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3
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Nguyen PQ, Huecas S, Asif-Laidin A, Plaza-Pegueroles A, Capuzzi B, Palmic N, Conesa C, Acker J, Reguera J, Lesage P, Fernández-Tornero C. Structural basis of Ty1 integrase tethering to RNA polymerase III for targeted retrotransposon integration. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1729. [PMID: 36977686 PMCID: PMC10050235 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37109-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The yeast Ty1 retrotransposon integrates upstream of genes transcribed by RNA polymerase III (Pol III). Specificity of integration is mediated by an interaction between the Ty1 integrase (IN1) and Pol III, currently uncharacterized at the atomic level. We report cryo-EM structures of Pol III in complex with IN1, revealing a 16-residue segment at the IN1 C-terminus that contacts Pol III subunits AC40 and AC19, an interaction that we validate by in vivo mutational analysis. Binding to IN1 associates with allosteric changes in Pol III that may affect its transcriptional activity. The C-terminal domain of subunit C11, involved in RNA cleavage, inserts into the Pol III funnel pore, providing evidence for a two-metal mechanism during RNA cleavage. Additionally, ordering next to C11 of an N-terminal portion from subunit C53 may explain the connection between these subunits during termination and reinitiation. Deletion of the C53 N-terminal region leads to reduced chromatin association of Pol III and IN1, and a major fall in Ty1 integration events. Our data support a model in which IN1 binding induces a Pol III configuration that may favor its retention on chromatin, thereby improving the likelihood of Ty1 integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phong Quoc Nguyen
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, AFMB UMR 7257, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Sonia Huecas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amna Asif-Laidin
- Université Paris Cité, IRSL, Inserm, U944, CNRS, UMR7212, 75010, Paris, France
| | | | - Beatrice Capuzzi
- Université Paris Cité, IRSL, Inserm, U944, CNRS, UMR7212, 75010, Paris, France
| | - Noé Palmic
- Université Paris Cité, IRSL, Inserm, U944, CNRS, UMR7212, 75010, Paris, France
| | - Christine Conesa
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Joël Acker
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Juan Reguera
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, AFMB UMR 7257, 13288, Marseille, France
- INSERM, AFMB UMR7257, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Pascale Lesage
- Université Paris Cité, IRSL, Inserm, U944, CNRS, UMR7212, 75010, Paris, France.
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4
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Structural insights into nuclear transcription by eukaryotic DNA-dependent RNA polymerases. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:603-622. [PMID: 35505252 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00476-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The eukaryotic transcription apparatus synthesizes a staggering diversity of RNA molecules. The labour of nuclear gene transcription is, therefore, divided among multiple DNA-dependent RNA polymerases. RNA polymerase I (Pol I) transcribes ribosomal RNA, Pol II synthesizes messenger RNAs and various non-coding RNAs (including long non-coding RNAs, microRNAs and small nuclear RNAs) and Pol III produces transfer RNAs and other short RNA molecules. Pol I, Pol II and Pol III are large, multisubunit protein complexes that associate with a multitude of additional factors to synthesize transcripts that largely differ in size, structure and abundance. The three transcription machineries share common characteristics, but differ widely in various aspects, such as numbers of RNA polymerase subunits, regulatory elements and accessory factors, which allows them to specialize in transcribing their specific RNAs. Common to the three RNA polymerases is that the transcription process consists of three major steps: transcription initiation, transcript elongation and transcription termination. In this Review, we outline the common principles and differences between the Pol I, Pol II and Pol III transcription machineries and discuss key structural and functional insights obtained into the three stages of their transcription processes.
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5
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Kessler AC, Maraia RJ. The nuclear and cytoplasmic activities of RNA polymerase III, and an evolving transcriptome for surveillance. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:12017-12034. [PMID: 34850129 PMCID: PMC8643620 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A 1969 report that described biochemical and activity properties of the three eukaryotic RNA polymerases revealed Pol III as highly distinguishable, even before its transcripts were identified. Now known to be the most complex, Pol III contains several stably-associated subunits referred to as built-in transcription factors (BITFs) that enable highly efficient RNA synthesis by a unique termination-associated recycling process. In vertebrates, subunit RPC7(α/β) can be of two forms, encoded by POLR3G or POLR3GL, with differential activity. Here we review promoter-dependent transcription by Pol III as an evolutionary perspective of eukaryotic tRNA expression. Pol III also provides nonconventional functions reportedly by promoter-independent transcription, one of which is RNA synthesis from DNA 3'-ends during repair. Another is synthesis of 5'ppp-RNA signaling molecules from cytoplasmic viral DNA in a pathway of interferon activation that is dysfunctional in immunocompromised patients with mutations in Pol III subunits. These unconventional functions are also reviewed, including evidence that link them to the BITF subunits. We also review data on a fraction of the human Pol III transcriptome that evolved to include vault RNAs and snaRs with activities related to differentiation, and in innate immune and tumor surveillance. The Pol III of higher eukaryotes does considerably more than housekeeping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan C Kessler
- Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892 USA
| | - Richard J Maraia
- Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892 USA
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6
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Mishra S, Hasan SH, Sakhawala RM, Chaudhry S, Maraia RJ. Mechanism of RNA polymerase III termination-associated reinitiation-recycling conferred by the essential function of the N terminal-and-linker domain of the C11 subunit. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5900. [PMID: 34625550 PMCID: PMC8501072 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26080-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase III achieves high level tRNA synthesis by termination-associated reinitiation-recycling that involves the essential C11 subunit and heterodimeric C37/53. The C11-CTD (C-terminal domain) promotes Pol III active center-intrinsic RNA 3'-cleavage although deciphering function for this activity has been complicated. We show that the isolated NTD (N-terminal domain) of C11 stimulates Pol III termination by C37/53 but not reinitiation-recycling which requires the NTD-linker (NTD-L). By an approach different from what led to current belief that RNA 3'-cleavage activity is essential, we show that NTD-L can provide the essential function of Saccharomyces cerevisiae C11 whereas classic point mutations that block cleavage, interfere with active site function and are toxic to growth. Biochemical and in vivo analysis including of the C11 invariant central linker led to a model for Pol III termination-associated reinitiation-recycling. The C11 NTD and CTD stimulate termination and RNA 3'-cleavage, respectively, whereas reinitiation-recycling activity unique to Pol III requires only the NTD-linker. RNA 3'-cleavage activity increases growth rate but is nonessential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Mishra
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shaina H Hasan
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Rima M Sakhawala
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Section on Regulatory RNA, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shereen Chaudhry
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Pfizer (Pearl River Site), 401 N Middletown Rd, Pearl River, NY, USA
| | - Richard J Maraia
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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7
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Bonnet A, Lesage P. Light and shadow on the mechanisms of integration site selection in yeast Ty retrotransposon families. Curr Genet 2021; 67:347-357. [PMID: 33590295 DOI: 10.1007/s00294-021-01154-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Transposable elements are ubiquitous in genomes. Their successful expansion depends in part on their sites of integration in their host genome. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, evolution has selected various strategies to target the five Ty LTR-retrotransposon families into gene-poor regions in a genome, where coding sequences occupy 70% of the DNA. The integration of Ty1/Ty2/Ty4 and Ty3 occurs upstream and at the transcription start site of the genes transcribed by RNA polymerase III, respectively. Ty5 has completely different integration site preferences, targeting heterochromatin regions. Here, we review the history that led to the identification of the cellular tethering factors that play a major role in anchoring Ty retrotransposons to their preferred sites. We also question the involvement of additional factors in the fine-tuning of the integration site selection, with several studies converging towards an importance of the structure and organization of the chromatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Bonnet
- INSERM U944, CNRS UMR 7212, Genomes and Cell Biology of Disease Unit, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Pascale Lesage
- INSERM U944, CNRS UMR 7212, Genomes and Cell Biology of Disease Unit, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France.
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8
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Génin NEJ, Weinzierl ROJ. Nucleotide Loading Modes of Human RNA Polymerase II as Deciphered by Molecular Simulations. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091289. [PMID: 32906795 PMCID: PMC7565877 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mapping the route of nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) entry into the sequestered active site of RNA polymerase (RNAP) has major implications for elucidating the complete nucleotide addition cycle. Constituting a dichotomy that remains to be resolved, two alternatives, direct NTP delivery via the secondary channel (CH2) or selection to downstream sites in the main channel (CH1) prior to catalysis, have been proposed. In this study, accelerated molecular dynamics simulations of freely diffusing NTPs about RNAPII were applied to refine the CH2 model and uncover atomic details on the CH1 model that previously lacked a persuasive structural framework to illustrate its mechanism of action. Diffusion and binding of NTPs to downstream DNA, and the transfer of a preselected NTP to the active site, are simulated for the first time. All-atom simulations further support that CH1 loading is transcription factor IIF (TFIIF) dependent and impacts catalytic isomerization. Altogether, the alternative nucleotide loading systems may allow distinct transcriptional landscapes to be expressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas E. J. Génin
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique, Université d’Orléans, 45100 Orléans, France;
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9
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Zhao H, Qin Y, Xiao Z, Li Q, Yang N, Pan Z, Gong D, Sun Q, Yang F, Zhang Z, Wu Y, Xu C, Qiu F. Loss of Function of an RNA Polymerase III Subunit Leads to Impaired Maize Kernel Development. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 184:359-373. [PMID: 32591429 PMCID: PMC7479876 DOI: 10.1104/pp.20.00502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Kernel size is an important factor determining grain yield. Although a number of genes affecting kernel development in maize (Zea mays) have been identified by analyzing kernel mutants, most of the corresponding mutants cannot be used in maize breeding programs due to low germination or incomplete seed development. Here, we characterized small kernel7, a recessive small-kernel mutant with a mutation in the gene encoding the second-largest subunit of RNA polymerase III (RNAPΙΙΙ; NRPC2). A frame shift in ZmNRPC2 leads to a premature stop codon, resulting in significantly reduced levels of transfer RNAs and 5S ribosomal RNA, which are transcribed by RNAPΙΙΙ. Loss-of-function nrpc2 mutants created by CRISPR/CAS9 showed significantly reduced kernel size due to altered endosperm cell size and number. ZmNRPC2 affects RNAPIII activity and the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and endoreduplication to control kernel development via physically interacting with RNAPIII subunits RPC53 and AC40, transcription factor class C1 and Floury3. Notably, unlike the semidominant negative mutant floury3, which has defects in starchy endosperm, small kernel7 only affects kernel size but not the composition of kernel storage proteins. Our findings provide novel insights into the molecular network underlying maize kernel size, which could facilitate the genetic improvement of maize in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailiang Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | | | - Ziyi Xiao
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qi Li
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Chinese Academy of Science Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology & Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ning Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhenyuan Pan
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Dianming Gong
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qin Sun
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Fang Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zuxin Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yongrui Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Chinese Academy of Science Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology & Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Cao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Fazhan Qiu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
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10
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A mutation in POLR3E impairs antiviral immune response and RNA polymerase III. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:22113-22121. [PMID: 32843346 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2009947117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase (Pol) III has a noncanonical role of viral DNA sensing in the innate immune system. This polymerase transcribes viral genomes to produce RNAs that lead to induction of type I interferons (IFNs). However, the genetic and functional links of Pol III to innate immunity in humans remain largely unknown. Here, we describe a rare homozygous mutation (D40H) in the POLR3E gene, coding for a protein subunit of Pol III, in a child with recurrent and systemic viral infections and Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Fibroblasts derived from the patient exhibit impaired induction of type I IFN and increased susceptibility to human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. Cultured cell lines infected with HCMV show induction of POLR3E expression. However, induction is not restricted to DNA virus, as sindbis virus, an RNA virus, enhances the expression of this protein. Likewise, foreign nonviral DNA elevates the steady-state level of POLR3E and elicits promoter-dependent and -independent transcription by Pol III. Remarkably, the molecular mechanism underlying the D40H mutation of POLR3E involves the assembly of defective initiation complexes of Pol III. Our study links mutated POLR3E and Pol III to an innate immune deficiency state in humans.
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11
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Nguéa P A, Robertson J, Herrera MC, Chymkowitch P, Enserink JM. Desumoylation of RNA polymerase III lies at the core of the Sumo stress response in yeast. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:18784-18795. [PMID: 31676685 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modification by small ubiquitin-like modifier (Sumo) regulates many cellular processes, including the adaptive response to various types of stress, referred to as the Sumo stress response (SSR). However, it remains unclear whether the SSR involves a common set of core proteins regardless of the type of stress or whether each particular type of stress induces a stress-specific SSR that targets a unique, largely nonoverlapping set of Sumo substrates. In this study, we used MS and a Gene Ontology approach to identify differentially sumoylated proteins during heat stress, hyperosmotic stress, oxidative stress, nitrogen starvation, and DNA alkylation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells. Our results indicate that each stress triggers a specific SSR signature centered on proteins involved in transcription, translation, and chromatin regulation. Strikingly, whereas the various stress-specific SSRs were largely nonoverlapping, all types of stress tested here resulted in desumoylation of subunits of RNA polymerase III, which correlated with a decrease in tRNA synthesis. We conclude that desumoylation and subsequent inhibition of RNA polymerase III constitutes the core of all stress-specific SSRs in yeast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Nguéa P
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Montebello, N-0379 Oslo, Norway; Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway
| | - Joseph Robertson
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Montebello, N-0379 Oslo, Norway; Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Carmen Herrera
- Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway
| | - Pierre Chymkowitch
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, 0372 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Jorrit M Enserink
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Montebello, N-0379 Oslo, Norway; Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, 0371 Oslo, Norway.
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12
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Khoo SK, Wu CC, Lin YC, Chen HT. The TFIIE-related Rpc82 subunit of RNA polymerase III interacts with the TFIIB-related transcription factor Brf1 and the polymerase cleft for transcription initiation. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:1157-1166. [PMID: 29177422 PMCID: PMC5814912 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx1179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rpc82 is a TFIIE-related subunit of the eukaryotic RNA polymerase III (pol III) complex. Rpc82 contains four winged-helix (WH) domains and a C-terminal coiled-coil domain. Structural resolution of the pol III complex indicated that Rpc82 anchors on the clamp domain of the pol III cleft to interact with the duplex DNA downstream of the transcription bubble. However, whether Rpc82 interacts with a transcription factor is still not known. Here, we report that a structurally disordered insertion in the third WH domain of Rpc82 is important for cell growth and in vitro transcription activity. Site-specific photo-crosslinking analysis indicated that the WH3 insertion interacts with the TFIIB-related transcription factor Brf1 within the pre-initiation complex (PIC). Moreover, crosslinking and hydroxyl radical probing analyses revealed Rpc82 interactions with the upstream DNA and the protrusion and wall domains of the pol III cleft. Our genetic and biochemical analyses thus provide new molecular insights into the function of Rpc82 in pol III transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok-Kooi Khoo
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128 Sec. 2 Academia Rd., Taipei 115, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chih-Chien Wu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128 Sec. 2 Academia Rd., Taipei 115, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yu-Chun Lin
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128 Sec. 2 Academia Rd., Taipei 115, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Hung-Ta Chen
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128 Sec. 2 Academia Rd., Taipei 115, Taiwan, R.O.C
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13
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Genetic analyses led to the discovery of a super-active mutant of the RNA polymerase I. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1008157. [PMID: 31136569 PMCID: PMC6555540 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Most transcriptional activity of exponentially growing cells is carried out by the RNA Polymerase I (Pol I), which produces a ribosomal RNA (rRNA) precursor. In budding yeast, Pol I is a multimeric enzyme with 14 subunits. Among them, Rpa49 forms with Rpa34 a Pol I-specific heterodimer (homologous to PAF53/CAST heterodimer in human Pol I), which might be responsible for the specific functions of the Pol I. Previous studies provided insight in the involvement of Rpa49 in initiation, elongation, docking and releasing of Rrn3, an essential Pol I transcription factor. Here, we took advantage of the spontaneous occurrence of extragenic suppressors of the growth defect of the rpa49 null mutant to better understand the activity of Pol I. Combining genetic approaches, biochemical analysis of rRNA synthesis and investigation of the transcription rate at the individual gene scale, we characterized mutated residues of the Pol I as novel extragenic suppressors of the growth defect caused by the absence of Rpa49. When mapped on the Pol I structure, most of these mutations cluster within the jaw-lobe module, at an interface formed by the lobe in Rpa135 and the jaw made up of regions of Rpa190 and Rpa12. In vivo, the suppressor allele RPA135-F301S restores normal rRNA synthesis and increases Pol I density on rDNA genes when Rpa49 is absent. Growth of the Rpa135-F301S mutant is impaired when combined with exosome mutation rrp6Δ and it massively accumulates pre-rRNA. Moreover, Pol I bearing Rpa135-F301S is a hyper-active RNA polymerase in an in vitro tailed-template assay. We conclude that RNA polymerase I can be engineered to produce more rRNA in vivo and in vitro. We propose that the mutated area undergoes a conformational change that supports the DNA insertion into the cleft of the enzyme resulting in a super-active form of Pol I. The nuclear genome of eukaryotic cells is transcribed by three RNA polymerases. RNA polymerase I (Pol I) is a multimeric enzyme specialized in the synthesis of ribosomal RNA. Deregulation of the Pol I function is linked to the etiology of a broad range of human diseases. Understanding the Pol I activity and regulation represents therefore a major challenge. We chose the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model, because Pol I transcription apparatus is genetically amenable in this organism. Analyses of phenotypic consequences of deletion/truncation of Pol I subunits-coding genes in yeast indeed provided insights into the activity and regulation of the enzyme. Here, we characterized mutations in Pol I that can alleviate the growth defect caused by the absence of Rpa49, one of the subunits composing this multi-protein enzyme. We mapped these mutations on the Pol I structure and found that they all cluster in a well-described structural element, the jaw-lobe module. Combining genetic and biochemical approaches, we showed that Pol I bearing one of these mutations in the Rpa135 subunit is able to produce more ribosomal RNA in vivo and in vitro. We propose that this super-activity is explained by structural rearrangement of the Pol I jaw/lobe interface.
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14
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Joiner CM, Breen ME, Mapp AK. Electron-deficient p-benzoyl-l-phenylalanine derivatives increase covalent chemical capture yields for protein-protein interactions. Protein Sci 2019; 28:1163-1170. [PMID: 30977234 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The photoactivatable amino acid p-benzoyl-l-phenylalanine (pBpa) has been used for the covalent capture of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) in vitro and in living cells. However, this technique often suffers from poor photocrosslinking yields due to the low reactivity of the active species. Here we demonstrate that the incorporation of halogenated pBpa analogs into proteins leads to increased crosslinking yields for protein-protein interactions. The analogs can be incorporated into live yeast and upon irradiation capture endogenous PPIs. Halogenated pBpas will extend the scope of PPIs that can be captured and expand the toolbox for mapping PPIs in their native environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M Joiner
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Meghan E Breen
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Anna K Mapp
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Program in Chemical Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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15
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Miyazaki R, Akiyama Y, Mori H. A photo-cross-linking approach to monitor protein dynamics in living cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1864:129317. [PMID: 30851405 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteins, which comprise one of the major classes of biomolecules that constitute a cell, interact with other cellular factors during both their biogenesis and functional states. Studying not only static but also transient interactions of proteins is important to understand their physiological roles and regulation mechanisms. However, only a limited number of methods are available to analyze the dynamic behaviors of proteins at the molecular level in a living cell. The site-directed in vivo photo-cross-linking approach is an elegant technique to capture protein interactions with high spatial resolution in a living cell. SCOPE OF REVIEW Here, we review the in vivo photo-cross-linking approach including its recent applications and the potential problems to be considered. We also introduce a new in vivo photo-cross-linking-based technique (PiXie) to study protein dynamics with high spatiotemporal resolution. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS In vivo photo-cross-linking enables us to capture weak/transient protein interactions with high spatial resolution, and allows for identification of interacting factors. Moreover, the PiXie approach can be used to monitor rapid folding/assembly processes of proteins in living cells. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE In vivo photo-cross-linking is a simple method that has been used to analyze the dynamic interactions of many cellular proteins. Originally developed in Escherichia coli, this system has been extended to studies in various organisms, making it a fundamental technique for investigating dynamic protein interactions in many cellular processes. This article is part of a Special issue entitled "Novel major techniques for visualizing 'live' protein molecules" edited by Dr. Daisuke Kohda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoji Miyazaki
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Akiyama
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Mori
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan.
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16
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Mishra S, Maraia RJ. RNA polymerase III subunits C37/53 modulate rU:dA hybrid 3' end dynamics during transcription termination. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:310-327. [PMID: 30407541 PMCID: PMC6326807 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky1109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase (RNAP) III synthesizes tRNAs and other transcripts, and mutations to its subunits cause human disorders. The RNAP III subunit-heterodimer C37/53 functions in initiation, elongation and in termination-associated reinitiation with subunit C11. C37/53 is related to heterodimers associated with RNAPs I and II, and C11 is related to TFIIS and Rpa12.2, the active site RNA 3' cleavage factors for RNAPs II and I. Critical to termination is stability of the RNA:DNA hybrid bound in the active center, which is loose for RNAP III relative to other RNAPs. Here, we examined RNAP III lacking C37/53/C11 and various reconstituted forms during termination. First, we established a minimal terminator as 5T and 3A on the non-template and template DNA strands, respectively. We demonstrate that C11 stimulates termination, and does so independently of its RNA cleavage activity. We found that C37/53 sensitizes RNAP III termination to RNA:DNA hybrid strength and promotes RNA 3' end pairing/annealing with the template. The latter counteracts C11-insensitive arrest in the proximal part of the oligo(T)-tract, promoting oligo(rU:dA) extension toward greater hybrid instability and RNA release. The data also indicate that RNA 3' end engagement with the active site is a determinant of termination. Broader implications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Mishra
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Richard J Maraia
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Commissioned Corps, U.S. Public Health Service, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
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17
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Greber BJ, Nogales E. The Structures of Eukaryotic Transcription Pre-initiation Complexes and Their Functional Implications. Subcell Biochem 2019; 93:143-192. [PMID: 31939151 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-28151-9_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transcription is a highly regulated process that supplies living cells with coding and non-coding RNA molecules. Failure to properly regulate transcription is associated with human pathologies, including cancers. RNA polymerase II is the enzyme complex that synthesizes messenger RNAs that are then translated into proteins. In spite of its complexity, RNA polymerase requires a plethora of general transcription factors to be recruited to the transcription start site as part of a large transcription pre-initiation complex, and to help it gain access to the transcribed strand of the DNA. This chapter reviews the structure and function of these eukaryotic transcription pre-initiation complexes, with a particular emphasis on two of its constituents, the multisubunit complexes TFIID and TFIIH. We also compare the overall architecture of the RNA polymerase II pre-initiation complex with those of RNA polymerases I and III, involved in transcription of ribosomal RNA and non-coding RNAs such as tRNAs and snRNAs, and discuss the general, conserved features that are applicable to all eukaryotic RNA polymerase systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basil J Greber
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrative Bio-Imaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Eva Nogales
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrative Bio-Imaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
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18
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Structural visualization of RNA polymerase III transcription machineries. Cell Discov 2018; 4:40. [PMID: 30083386 PMCID: PMC6066478 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-018-0044-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase III (Pol III) transcription initiation requires the action of the transcription factor IIIB (TFIIIB) and is highly regulated. Here, we determine the structures of Pol III pre-initiation complexes (PICs) using single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). We observe stable Pol III-TFIIIB complexes using nucleic acid scaffolds mimicking various functional states, in which TFIIIB tightly encircles the upstream promoter DNA. There is an intricate interaction between TFIIIB and Pol III, which stabilizes the winged-helix domains of the C34 subunit of Pol III over the active site cleft. The architecture of Pol III PIC more resembles that of the Pol II PIC than the Pol I PIC. In addition, we also obtain a 3D reconstruction of Pol III in complex with TFIIIB using the elongation complex (EC) scaffold, shedding light on the mechanism of facilitated recycling of Pol III prior to transcription re-initiation.
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19
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Molecular mechanism of promoter opening by RNA polymerase III. Nature 2018; 553:295-300. [PMID: 29345638 PMCID: PMC5777638 DOI: 10.1038/nature25440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
RNA polymerase III (Pol III) assembles together with transcription factor IIIB (TFIIIB) on different promoter types to initiate the transcription of small, structured RNAs. Here, we present structures of Pol III pre-initiation complexes comprising the 17-subunit Pol III and hetero-trimeric transcription factor TFIIIB with subunits TATA-binding protein (TBP), B-related factor 1 (Brf1) and B double prime 1 (Bdp1) bound to a natural promoter in different functional states. Electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) reconstructions varying from 3.7 Å to 5.5 Å resolution include two early intermediates in which the DNA duplex is closed, an open DNA complex and an initially transcribing complex with RNA in the active site. Our structures reveal an extremely tight and multivalent interaction of TFIIIB with promoter DNA and explain how TFIIIB recruits Pol III. TFIIIB and Pol III subunit C37 together activate the intrinsic transcription factor-like activity of the Pol III-specific heterotrimer to initiate melting of double-stranded DNA in a mechanism similar as used in the Pol II system.
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20
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Ramsay EP, Vannini A. Structural rearrangements of the RNA polymerase III machinery during tRNA transcription initiation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2018; 1861:285-294. [PMID: 29155071 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
RNA polymerase III catalyses the synthesis of tRNAs in eukaryotic organisms. Through combined biochemical and structural characterisation, multiple auxiliary factors have been identified alongside RNA Polymerase III as critical in both facilitating and regulating transcription. Together, this machinery forms dynamic multi-protein complexes at tRNA genes which are required for polymerase recruitment, DNA opening and initiation and elongation of the tRNA transcripts. Central to the function of these complexes is their ability to undergo multiple conformational changes and rearrangements that regulate each step. Here, we discuss the available biochemical and structural data on the structural plasticity of multi-protein complexes involved in RNA Polymerase III transcriptional initiation and facilitated re-initiation during tRNA synthesis. Increasingly, structural information is becoming available for RNA polymerase III and its functional complexes, allowing for a deeper understanding of tRNA transcriptional initiation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: SI: Regulation of tRNA synthesis and modification in physiological conditions and disease edited by Dr. Boguta Magdalena.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Eukaryotic Cells/metabolism
- Humans
- Models, Genetic
- Multiprotein Complexes/metabolism
- Promoter Regions, Genetic/genetics
- Protein Subunits
- RNA Polymerase III/chemistry
- RNA Polymerase III/metabolism
- RNA, Transfer/biosynthesis
- RNA, Transfer/genetics
- RNA, Transfer, Amino Acid-Specific/biosynthesis
- RNA, Transfer, Amino Acid-Specific/genetics
- Transcription Elongation, Genetic
- Transcription Factors/genetics
- Transcription Initiation, Genetic
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21
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Functions of the TFIIE-Related Tandem Winged-Helix Domain of Rpc34 in RNA Polymerase III Initiation and Elongation. Mol Cell Biol 2018; 38:MCB.00105-17. [PMID: 29180511 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00105-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rpc34 is a subunit of the Rpc82/34/31 subcomplex residing on the DNA-binding cleft of RNA polymerase (Pol) III. Rpc34 contains a structurally flexible N-terminal tandem winged-helix (tWH) domain related to the TFIIE transcription factor. While the second WH (WH2) fold of the tWH domain is known to function in DNA melting activity during transcription initiation, the functional role of the WH1 fold is unknown. In this study, we generated a series of new Rpc34 tWH mutants conferring a cold-sensitive growth phenotype. We found that the tWH mutations severely compromised in vitro transcription activity due to destabilization of the preinitiation complex (PIC). Site-specific protein photo-cross-linking analysis indicated that the tWH domain persistently interacts with protein subunits of the Pol III cleft in the PIC and the ternary elongation complex (TEC). Furthermore, purified Pol III proteins with tWH mutations also showed reduced efficiency in RNA elongation. Our study results suggest that the tWH domain is an important protein module above the Pol III cleft that integrates protein and nucleic acid interactions for initiation and elongation.
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22
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Abascal-Palacios G, Ramsay EP, Beuron F, Morris E, Vannini A. Structural basis of RNA polymerase III transcription initiation. Nature 2018; 553:301-306. [PMID: 29345637 DOI: 10.1038/nature25441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RNA polymerase (Pol) III transcribes essential non-coding RNAs, including the entire pool of transfer RNAs, the 5S ribosomal RNA and the U6 spliceosomal RNA, and is often deregulated in cancer cells. The initiation of gene transcription by Pol III requires the activity of the transcription factor TFIIIB to form a transcriptionally active Pol III preinitiation complex (PIC). Here we present electron microscopy reconstructions of Pol III PICs at 3.4-4.0 Å and a reconstruction of unbound apo-Pol III at 3.1 Å. TFIIIB fully encircles the DNA and restructures Pol III. In particular, binding of the TFIIIB subunit Bdp1 rearranges the Pol III-specific subunits C37 and C34, thereby promoting DNA opening. The unwound DNA directly contacts both sides of the Pol III cleft. Topologically, the Pol III PIC resembles the Pol II PIC, whereas the Pol I PIC is more divergent. The structures presented unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying the first steps of Pol III transcription and also the general conserved mechanisms of gene transcription initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Edward Morris
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW7 3RP, UK
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23
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Willis IM, Moir RD. Signaling to and from the RNA Polymerase III Transcription and Processing Machinery. Annu Rev Biochem 2018; 87:75-100. [PMID: 29328783 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-062917-012624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
RNA polymerase (Pol) III has a specialized role in transcribing the most abundant RNAs in eukaryotic cells, transfer RNAs (tRNAs), along with other ubiquitous small noncoding RNAs, many of which have functions related to the ribosome and protein synthesis. The high energetic cost of producing these RNAs and their central role in protein synthesis underlie the robust regulation of Pol III transcription in response to nutrients and stress by growth regulatory pathways. Downstream of Pol III, signaling impacts posttranscriptional processes affecting tRNA function in translation and tRNA cleavage into smaller fragments that are increasingly attributed with novel cellular activities. In this review, we consider how nutrients and stress control Pol III transcription via its factors and its negative regulator, Maf1. We highlight recent work showing that the composition of the tRNA population and the function of individual tRNAs is dynamically controlled and that unrestrained Pol III transcription can reprogram central metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M Willis
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461, USA; , .,Department of Systems and Computational Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Robyn D Moir
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461, USA; ,
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24
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Leśniewska E, Boguta M. Novel layers of RNA polymerase III control affecting tRNA gene transcription in eukaryotes. Open Biol 2017; 7:rsob.170001. [PMID: 28228471 PMCID: PMC5356446 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.170001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase III (Pol III) transcribes a limited set of short genes in eukaryotes producing abundant small RNAs, mostly tRNA. The originally defined yeast Pol III transcriptome appears to be expanding owing to the application of new methods. Also, several factors required for assembly and nuclear import of Pol III complex have been identified recently. Models of Pol III based on cryo-electron microscopy reconstructions of distinct Pol III conformations reveal unique features distinguishing Pol III from other polymerases. Novel concepts concerning Pol III functioning involve recruitment of general Pol III-specific transcription factors and distinctive mechanisms of transcription initiation, elongation and termination. Despite the short length of Pol III transcription units, mapping of transcriptionally active Pol III with nucleotide resolution has revealed strikingly uneven polymerase distribution along all genes. This may be related, at least in part, to the transcription factors bound at the internal promoter regions. Pol III uses also a specific negative regulator, Maf1, which binds to polymerase under stress conditions; however, a subset of Pol III genes is not controlled by Maf1. Among other RNA polymerases, Pol III machinery represents unique features related to a short transcript length and high transcription efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Leśniewska
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5a, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Boguta
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5a, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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25
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Khatter H, Vorländer MK, Müller CW. RNA polymerase I and III: similar yet unique. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2017; 47:88-94. [PMID: 28743025 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2017.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The majority of non-protein-coding RNAs present in eukaryotic cells comprises rRNAs, tRNAs and U6 snRNA that are involved in protein biosynthesis and are synthesized by DNA-dependent-RNA polymerase I and III. The transcription cycle (initiation, elongation and termination) has similar principles in all three nuclear RNA polymerases with specific features that are reflected back in their structures. Recently, owing to the 'resolution revolution' in electron cryo-microscopy, there has been a significant advancement in the understanding of these molecular machines. Here, we highlight the structure-function adaptation in specificity and activity of these molecular machines and present parallels and distinctions between their transcription mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heena Khatter
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias K Vorländer
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph W Müller
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.
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26
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Hantsche M, Cramer P. Strukturelle Grundlage der Transkription: 10 Jahre nach dem Chemie-Nobelpreis. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201608066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Merle Hantsche
- Abteilung für Molekularbiologie; Max-Planck-Institut für biophysikalische Chemie; Am Fassberg 11 37077 Göttingen Deutschland
| | - Patrick Cramer
- Abteilung für Molekularbiologie; Max-Planck-Institut für biophysikalische Chemie; Am Fassberg 11 37077 Göttingen Deutschland
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27
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Hantsche M, Cramer P. The Structural Basis of Transcription: 10 Years After the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 55:15972-15981. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201608066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Merle Hantsche
- Abteilung für Molekularbiologie; Max Planck Institut für biophysikalische Chemie; Am Fassberg 11 37077 Göttingen Germany
| | - Patrick Cramer
- Abteilung für Molekularbiologie; Max Planck Institut für biophysikalische Chemie; Am Fassberg 11 37077 Göttingen Germany
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28
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Rijal K, Maraia RJ. Active Center Control of Termination by RNA Polymerase III and tRNA Gene Transcription Levels In Vivo. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006253. [PMID: 27518095 PMCID: PMC4982682 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability of RNA polymerase (RNAP) III to efficiently recycle from termination to reinitiation is critical for abundant tRNA production during cellular proliferation, development and cancer. Yet understanding of the unique termination mechanisms used by RNAP III is incomplete, as is its link to high transcription output. We used two tRNA-mediated suppression systems to screen for Rpc1 mutants with gain- and loss- of termination phenotypes in S. pombe. 122 point mutation mutants were mapped to a recently solved 3.9 Å structure of yeast RNAP III elongation complex (EC); they cluster in the active center bridge helix and trigger loop, as well as the pore and funnel, the latter of which indicate involvement of the RNA cleavage domain of the C11 subunit in termination. Purified RNAP III from a readthrough (RT) mutant exhibits increased elongation rate. The data strongly support a kinetic coupling model in which elongation rate is inversely related to termination efficiency. The mutants exhibit good correlations of terminator RT in vitro and in vivo, and surprisingly, amounts of transcription in vivo. Because assessing in vivo transcription can be confounded by various parameters, we used a tRNA reporter with a processing defect and a strong terminator. By ruling out differences in RNA decay rates, the data indicate that mutants with the RT phenotype synthesize more RNA than wild type cells, and than can be accounted for by their increased elongation rate. Finally, increased activity by the mutants appears unrelated to the RNAP III repressor, Maf1. The results show that the mobile elements of the RNAP III active center, including C11, are key determinants of termination, and that some of the mutations activate RNAP III for overall transcription. Similar mutations in spontaneous cancer suggest this as an unforeseen mechanism of RNAP III activation in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshab Rijal
- Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Richard J. Maraia
- Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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29
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Porrua O, Boudvillain M, Libri D. Transcription Termination: Variations on Common Themes. Trends Genet 2016; 32:508-522. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2016] [Revised: 05/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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30
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Hoffmann NA, Sadian Y, Tafur L, Kosinski J, Müller CW. Specialization versus conservation: How Pol I and Pol III use the conserved architecture of the pre-initiation complex for specialized transcription. Transcription 2016; 7:127-32. [PMID: 27327079 PMCID: PMC4984676 DOI: 10.1080/21541264.2016.1203628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we discuss the overall architecture of the RNA polymerase I (Pol I) and III (Pol III) core enzymes and their associated general transcription factors in the context of models of the Pol I and Pol III pre-initiation complexes, thereby highlighting potential functional adaptations of the Pol I and Pol III enzymes to their respective transcription tasks. Several new insights demonstrate the great degree of specialization of each of the eukaryotic RNA polymerases that is only beginning to be revealed as the structural and functional characterization of all eukaryotic RNA polymerases and their pre-initiation complexes progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas A Hoffmann
- a European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) , Structural and Computational Biology Unit , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Yashar Sadian
- a European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) , Structural and Computational Biology Unit , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Lucas Tafur
- a European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) , Structural and Computational Biology Unit , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Jan Kosinski
- a European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) , Structural and Computational Biology Unit , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Christoph W Müller
- a European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) , Structural and Computational Biology Unit , Heidelberg , Germany
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31
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Hoffmann NA, Jakobi AJ, Vorländer MK, Sachse C, Müller CW. Transcribing RNA polymerase III observed by electron cryomicroscopy. FEBS J 2016; 283:2811-9. [PMID: 27059519 PMCID: PMC5053293 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Electron cryomicroscopy reconstructions of elongating RNA polymerase (Pol) III at 3.9 Å resolution and of unbound Pol III (apo Pol III) in two distinct conformations at 4.6 Å and 4.7 Å resolution allow the construction of complete atomic models of Pol III and provide new functional insights into the adaption of Pol III to fulfill its specific transcription tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas A Hoffmann
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arjen J Jakobi
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias K Vorländer
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Sachse
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph W Müller
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
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32
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Automated structure modeling of large protein assemblies using crosslinks as distance restraints. Nat Methods 2016; 13:515-20. [PMID: 27111507 DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.3838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Crosslinking mass spectrometry is increasingly used for structural characterization of multisubunit protein complexes. Chemical crosslinking captures conformational heterogeneity, which typically results in conflicting crosslinks that cannot be satisfied in a single model, making detailed modeling a challenging task. Here we introduce an automated modeling method dedicated to large protein assemblies ('XL-MOD' software is available at http://aria.pasteur.fr/supplementary-data/x-links) that (i) uses a form of spatial restraints that realistically reflects the distribution of experimentally observed crosslinked distances; (ii) automatically deals with ambiguous and/or conflicting crosslinks and identifies alternative conformations within a Bayesian framework; and (iii) allows subunit structures to be flexible during conformational sampling. We demonstrate our method by testing it on known structures and available crosslinking data. We also crosslinked and modeled the 17-subunit yeast RNA polymerase III at atomic resolution; the resulting model agrees remarkably well with recently published cryoelectron microscopy structures and provides additional insights into the polymerase structure.
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33
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Schulz S, Gietl A, Smollett K, Tinnefeld P, Werner F, Grohmann D. TFE and Spt4/5 open and close the RNA polymerase clamp during the transcription cycle. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E1816-25. [PMID: 26979960 PMCID: PMC4822635 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1515817113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription is an intrinsically dynamic process and requires the coordinated interplay of RNA polymerases (RNAPs) with nucleic acids and transcription factors. Classical structural biology techniques have revealed detailed snapshots of a subset of conformational states of the RNAP as they exist in crystals. A detailed view of the conformational space sampled by the RNAP and the molecular mechanisms of the basal transcription factors E (TFE) and Spt4/5 through conformational constraints has remained elusive. We monitored the conformational changes of the flexible clamp of the RNAP by combining a fluorescently labeled recombinant 12-subunit RNAP system with single-molecule FRET measurements. We measured and compared the distances across the DNA binding channel of the archaeal RNAP. Our results show that the transition of the closed to the open initiation complex, which occurs concomitant with DNA melting, is coordinated with an opening of the RNAP clamp that is stimulated by TFE. We show that the clamp in elongation complexes is modulated by the nontemplate strand and by the processivity factor Spt4/5, both of which stimulate transcription processivity. Taken together, our results reveal an intricate network of interactions within transcription complexes between RNAP, transcription factors, and nucleic acids that allosterically modulate the RNAP during the transcription cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schulz
- Physikalische und Theoretische Chemie-NanoBioSciences, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Andreas Gietl
- Physikalische und Theoretische Chemie-NanoBioSciences, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Katherine Smollett
- RNA Polymerase Laboratory, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Tinnefeld
- Physikalische und Theoretische Chemie-NanoBioSciences, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany; Braunschweig Integrated Centre of Systems Biology (BRICS), Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany; Laboratory for Emerging Nanometrology (LENA), Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Finn Werner
- RNA Polymerase Laboratory, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom;
| | - Dina Grohmann
- Physikalische und Theoretische Chemie-NanoBioSciences, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany;
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34
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Cheung S, Ma L, Chan PHW, Hu HL, Mayor T, Chen HT, Measday V. Ty1 Integrase Interacts with RNA Polymerase III-specific Subcomplexes to Promote Insertion of Ty1 Elements Upstream of Polymerase (Pol) III-transcribed Genes. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:6396-411. [PMID: 26797132 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.686840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrotransposons are eukaryotic mobile genetic elements that transpose by reverse transcription of an RNA intermediate and are derived from retroviruses. The Ty1 retrotransposon of Saccharomyces cerevisiae belongs to the Ty1/Copia superfamily, which is present in every eukaryotic genome. Insertion of Ty1 elements into the S. cerevisiae genome, which occurs upstream of genes transcribed by RNA Pol III, requires the Ty1 element-encoded integrase (IN) protein. Here, we report that Ty1-IN interacts in vivo and in vitro with RNA Pol III-specific subunits to mediate insertion of Ty1 elements upstream of Pol III-transcribed genes. Purification of Ty1-IN from yeast cells followed by mass spectrometry (MS) analysis identified an enrichment of peptides corresponding to the Rpc82/34/31 and Rpc53/37 Pol III-specific subcomplexes. GFP-Trap purification of multiple GFP-tagged RNA Pol III subunits from yeast extracts revealed that the majority of Pol III subunits co-purify with Ty1-IN but not two other complexes required for Pol III transcription, transcription initiation factors (TF) IIIB and IIIC. In vitro binding studies with bacterially purified RNA Pol III proteins demonstrate that Rpc31, Rpc34, and Rpc53 interact directly with Ty1-IN. Deletion of the N-terminal 280 amino acids of Rpc53 abrogates insertion of Ty1 elements upstream of the hot spot SUF16 tRNA locus and abolishes the interaction of Ty1-IN with Rpc37. The Rpc53/37 complex therefore has an important role in targeting Ty1-IN to insert Ty1 elements upstream of Pol III-transcribed genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Cheung
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wine Research Centre, and
| | | | - Patrick H W Chan
- Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada and
| | - Hui-Lan Hu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan 115
| | - Thibault Mayor
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada and
| | - Hung-Ta Chen
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan 115
| | - Vivien Measday
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wine Research Centre, and
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35
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Hoffmann NA, Jakobi AJ, Moreno-Morcillo M, Glatt S, Kosinski J, Hagen WJH, Sachse C, Müller CW. Molecular structures of unbound and transcribing RNA polymerase III. Nature 2015; 528:231-6. [PMID: 26605533 PMCID: PMC4681132 DOI: 10.1038/nature16143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Transcription of genes encoding small structured RNAs such as transfer RNAs, spliceosomal U6 small nuclear RNA and ribosomal 5S RNA is carried out by RNA polymerase III (Pol III), the largest yet structurally least characterized eukaryotic RNA polymerase. Here we present the cryo-electron microscopy structures of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pol III elongating complex at 3.9 Å resolution and the apo Pol III enzyme in two different conformations at 4.6 and 4.7 Å resolution, respectively, which allow the building of a 17-subunit atomic model of Pol III. The reconstructions reveal the precise orientation of the C82-C34-C31 heterotrimer in close proximity to the stalk. The C53-C37 heterodimer positions residues involved in transcription termination close to the non-template DNA strand. In the apo Pol III structures, the stalk adopts different orientations coupled with closed and open conformations of the clamp. Our results provide novel insights into Pol III-specific transcription and the adaptation of Pol III towards its small transcriptional targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas A. Hoffmann
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arjen J. Jakobi
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit, Notkestr. 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Moreno-Morcillo
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Glatt
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Kosinski
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wim J. H. Hagen
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Sachse
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to C.S. () or C.W.M. ()
| | - Christoph W. Müller
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to C.S. () or C.W.M. ()
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36
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Arimbasseri AG, Maraia RJ. A high density of cis-information terminates RNA Polymerase III on a 2-rail track. RNA Biol 2015; 13:166-71. [PMID: 26636900 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2015.1116677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription termination delineates the 3' ends of transcripts, prevents otherwise runaway RNA polymerase (RNAP) from intruding into downstream genes and regulatory elements, and enables release of the RNAP for recycling. While other eukaryotic RNAPs require complex cis-signals and/or accessory factors to achieve these activities, RNAP III does so autonomously with high efficiency and precision at a simple oligo(dT) stretch of 5-6 bp. A basis for this high density cis-information is that both template and nontemplate strands of the RNAP III terminator carry distinct signals for different stages of termination. High-density cis-information is a feature of the RNAP III system that is also reflected by dual functionalities of the tRNA promoters as both DNA and RNA elements. We review emerging developments in RNAP III termination and single strand nontemplate DNA use by other RNAPs. Use of nontemplate signals by RNAPs and associated transcription factors may be prevalent in gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneeshkumar G Arimbasseri
- a Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Richard J Maraia
- a Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development , Bethesda , MD , USA.,b Commissioned Corps, U. S. Public Health Service , Washington, DC
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37
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Maraia
- Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2425, USA
| | - Keshab Rijal
- Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2425, USA
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38
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Arimbasseri AG, Rijal K, Maraia RJ. Comparative overview of RNA polymerase II and III transcription cycles, with focus on RNA polymerase III termination and reinitiation. Transcription 2015; 5:e27639. [PMID: 25764110 DOI: 10.4161/trns.27369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotes, RNA polymerase (RNAP) III transcribes hundreds of genes for tRNAs and 5S rRNA, among others, which share similar promoters and stable transcription initiation complexes (TIC), which support rapid RNAP III recycling. In contrast, RNAP II transcribes a large number of genes with highly variable promoters and interacting factors, which exert fine regulatory control over TIC lability and modifications of RNAP II at different transitional points in the transcription cycle. We review data that illustrate a relatively smooth continuity of RNAP III initiation-elongation-termination and reinitiation toward its function to produce high levels of tRNAs and other RNAs that support growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneeshkumar G Arimbasseri
- a Intramural Research Program; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; National Institutes of Health; Bethesda, MD USA
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39
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Architecture of TFIIIC and its role in RNA polymerase III pre-initiation complex assembly. Nat Commun 2015; 6:7387. [PMID: 26060179 PMCID: PMC4490372 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms8387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotes, RNA Polymerase III (Pol III) is specifically responsible for transcribing genes encoding tRNAs and other short non-coding RNAs. The recruitment of Pol III to tRNA-encoding genes requires the transcription factors (TF) IIIB and IIIC. TFIIIC has been described as a conserved, multi-subunit protein complex composed of two subcomplexes, called τA and τB. How these two subcomplexes are linked and how their interaction affects the formation of the Pol III pre-initiation complex (PIC) is poorly understood. Here we use chemical crosslinking mass spectrometry and determine the molecular architecture of TFIIIC. We further report the crystal structure of the essential TPR array from τA subunit τ131 and characterize its interaction with a central region of τB subunit τ138. The identified τ131–τ138 interacting region is essential in vivo and overlaps with TFIIIB-binding sites, revealing a crucial interaction platform for the regulation of tRNA transcription initiation. TFIIIC is a RNA polymerase III-specific general transcription factor complex essential for tRNA synthesis. Here the authors combine chemical crosslinking/mass spectrometry and X-ray crystallography to define the architecture of TFIIIC and suggest a model for the assembly of pre-initiation complexes at tRNA genes.
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40
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A Region of Bdp1 Necessary for Transcription Initiation That Is Located within the RNA Polymerase III Active Site Cleft. Mol Cell Biol 2015; 35:2831-40. [PMID: 26055328 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00263-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The RNA polymerase III (Pol III)-specific transcription factor Bdp1 is crucial to Pol III recruitment and promoter opening in transcription initiation, yet structural information is sparse. To examine its protein-binding targets within the preinitiation complex at the residue level, photoreactive amino acids were introduced into Saccharomyces cerevisiae Bdp1. Mutations within the highly conserved SANT domain cross-linked to the transcription factor IIB (TFIIB)-related transcription factor Brf1, consistent with the findings of previous studies. In addition, we identified an essential N-terminal region that cross-linked with the Pol III catalytic subunit C128 as well as Brf1. Closer examination revealed that this region interacted with the C128 N-terminal region, the N-terminal half of Brf1, and the C-terminal domain of the C37 subunit, together positioning this region within the active site cleft of the preinitiation complex. With our functional data, our analyses identified an essential region of Bdp1 that is positioned within the active site cleft of Pol III and necessary for transcription initiation.
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41
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Moreira-Filho CA, Bando SY, Bertonha FB, Iamashita P, Silva FN, Costa LDF, Silva AV, Castro LHM, Wen HT. Community structure analysis of transcriptional networks reveals distinct molecular pathways for early- and late-onset temporal lobe epilepsy with childhood febrile seizures. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128174. [PMID: 26011637 PMCID: PMC4444281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Age at epilepsy onset has a broad impact on brain plasticity and epilepsy pathomechanisms. Prolonged febrile seizures in early childhood (FS) constitute an initial precipitating insult (IPI) commonly associated with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). FS-MTLE patients may have early disease onset, i.e. just after the IPI, in early childhood, or late-onset, ranging from mid-adolescence to early adult life. The mechanisms governing early (E) or late (L) disease onset are largely unknown. In order to unveil the molecular pathways underlying E and L subtypes of FS-MTLE we investigated global gene expression in hippocampal CA3 explants of FS-MTLE patients submitted to hippocampectomy. Gene coexpression networks (GCNs) were obtained for the E and L patient groups. A network-based approach for GCN analysis was employed allowing: i) the visualization and analysis of differentially expressed (DE) and complete (CO) - all valid GO annotated transcripts - GCNs for the E and L groups; ii) the study of interactions between all the system's constituents based on community detection and coarse-grained community structure methods. We found that the E-DE communities with strongest connection weights harbor highly connected genes mainly related to neural excitability and febrile seizures, whereas in L-DE communities these genes are not only involved in network excitability but also playing roles in other epilepsy-related processes. Inversely, in E-CO the strongly connected communities are related to compensatory pathways (seizure inhibition, neuronal survival and responses to stress conditions) while in L-CO these communities harbor several genes related to pro-epileptic effects, seizure-related mechanisms and vulnerability to epilepsy. These results fit the concept, based on fMRI and behavioral studies, that early onset epilepsies, although impacting more severely the hippocampus, are associated to compensatory mechanisms, while in late MTLE development the brain is less able to generate adaptive mechanisms, what has implications for epilepsy management and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Yumi Bando
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Bernardi Bertonha
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Priscila Iamashita
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Luiz Henrique Martins Castro
- Department of Neurology, FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Clinical Neurology Division, Hospital das Clínicas, FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Hung-Tzu Wen
- Epilepsy Surgery Group, Hospital das Clínicas, FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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42
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Arimbasseri AG, Maraia RJ. Mechanism of Transcription Termination by RNA Polymerase III Utilizes a Non-template Strand Sequence-Specific Signal Element. Mol Cell 2015; 58:1124-32. [PMID: 25959395 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanism of transcription termination by a eukaryotic RNA polymerase (RNAP) has been limited by lack of a characterizable intermediate that reflects transition from an elongation complex to a true termination event. While other multisubunit RNAPs require multipartite cis-signals and/or ancillary factors to mediate pausing and release of the nascent transcript from the clutches of these enzymes, RNAP III does so with precision and efficiency on a simple oligo(dT) tract, independent of other cis-elements or trans-factors. We report an RNAP III pre-termination complex that reveals termination mechanisms controlled by sequence-specific elements in the non-template strand. Furthermore, the TFIIF-like RNAP III subunit C37 is required for this function of the non-template strand signal. The results reveal the RNAP III terminator as an information-rich control element. While the template strand promotes destabilization via a weak oligo(rU:dA) hybrid, the non-template strand provides distinct sequence-specific destabilizing information through interactions with the C37 subunit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneeshkumar G Arimbasseri
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Richard J Maraia
- Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Commissioned Corps, US Public Health Service.
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43
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Rijal K, Maraia RJ, Arimbasseri AG. A methods review on use of nonsense suppression to study 3' end formation and other aspects of tRNA biogenesis. Gene 2014; 556:35-50. [PMID: 25447915 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 11/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Suppressor tRNAs bear anticodon mutations that allow them to decode premature stop codons in metabolic marker gene mRNAs, that can be used as in vivo reporters of functional tRNA biogenesis. Here, we review key components of a suppressor tRNA system specific to Schizosaccharomyces pombe and its adaptations for use to study specific steps in tRNA biogenesis. Eukaryotic tRNA biogenesis begins with transcription initiation by RNA polymerase (pol) III. The nascent pre-tRNAs must undergo folding, 5' and 3' processing to remove the leader and trailer, nuclear export, and splicing if applicable, while multiple complex chemical modifications occur throughout the process. We review evidence that precursor-tRNA processing begins with transcription termination at the oligo(T) terminator element, which forms a 3' oligo(U) tract on the nascent RNA, a sequence-specific binding site for the RNA chaperone, La protein. The processing pathway bifurcates depending on a poorly understood property of pol III termination that determines the 3' oligo(U) length and therefore the affinity for La. We thus review the pol III termination process and the factors involved including advances using gene-specific random mutagenesis by dNTP analogs that identify key residues important for transcription termination in certain pol III subunits. The review ends with a 'technical approaches' section that includes a parts lists of suppressor-tRNA alleles, strains and plasmids, and graphic examples of its diverse uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshab Rijal
- Intramural Research Program on Genomics of Differentiation, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Richard J Maraia
- Intramural Research Program on Genomics of Differentiation, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Aneeshkumar G Arimbasseri
- Intramural Research Program on Genomics of Differentiation, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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44
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Knutson BA, Luo J, Ranish J, Hahn S. Architecture of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNA polymerase I Core Factor complex. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2014; 21:810-6. [PMID: 25132180 PMCID: PMC4219626 DOI: 10.1038/nsmb.2873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Core Factor (CF) is a conserved RNA polymerase (Pol) I general transcription factor and is comprised of Rrn6, Rrn11, and the TFIIB-related subunit Rrn7. CF binds TBP, Pol I, and the regulatory factors Rrn3 and UAF. We used chemical crosslinking-mass spectrometry (CXMS) to determine the molecular architecture of CF and its interactions with TBP. The CF subunits assemble through an interconnected network of interactions between five structural domains that are conserved in orthologous subunits of the human Pol I factor SL1. The crosslinking-derived model was validated through a series of genetic and biochemical assays. Our combined results show the architecture of CF and the functions of the CF subunits in assembly of the complex. We extend these findings to model how CF assembles into the Pol I preinitiation complex, providing new insight into the roles of CF, TBP and Rrn3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Knutson
- 1] Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA. [2]
| | - Jie Luo
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Steven Hahn
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
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45
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Mapping the protein interaction network for TFIIB-related factor Brf1 in the RNA polymerase III preinitiation complex. Mol Cell Biol 2013; 34:551-9. [PMID: 24277937 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00910-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
TFIIB-related factor Brf1 is essential for RNA polymerase (Pol) III recruitment and open-promoter formation in transcription initiation. We site specifically incorporated a nonnatural amino acid cross-linker into Brf1 to map its protein interaction targets in the preinitiation complex (PIC). Our cross-linking analysis in the N-terminal domain of Brf1 indicated a pattern of multiple protein interactions reminiscent of TFIIB in the Pol active-site cleft. In addition to the TFIIB-like protein interactions, the Brf1 cyclin repeat subdomain is in contact with the Pol III-specific C34 subunit. With site-directed hydroxyl radical probing, we further revealed the binding between Brf1 cyclin repeats and the highly conserved region connecting C34 winged-helix domains 2 and 3. In contrast to the N-terminal domain of Brf1, the C-terminal domain contains extensive binding sites for TBP and Bdp1 to hold together the TFIIIB complex on the promoter. Overall, the domain architecture of the PIC derived from our cross-linking data explains how individual structural subdomains of Brf1 integrate the protein network from the Pol III active center to the promoter for transcription initiation.
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Grünberg S, Hahn S. Structural insights into transcription initiation by RNA polymerase II. Trends Biochem Sci 2013; 38:603-11. [PMID: 24120742 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2013.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Transcriptional regulation is one of the most important steps in control of cell identity, growth, differentiation, and development. Many signaling pathways controlling these processes ultimately target the core transcription machinery that, for protein coding genes, consists of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) and the general transcription factors (GTFs). New studies on the structure and mechanism of the core assembly and how it interfaces with promoter DNA and coactivator complexes have given tremendous insight into early steps in the initiation process, genome-wide binding, and mechanisms conserved for all nuclear and archaeal Pols. Here, we review recent developments in dissecting the architecture of the Pol II core machinery with a focus on early and regulated steps in transcription initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Grünberg
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, PO Box 19024, Mailstop A1-162, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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Villa N, Do A, Hershey JWB, Fraser CS. Human eukaryotic initiation factor 4G (eIF4G) protein binds to eIF3c, -d, and -e to promote mRNA recruitment to the ribosome. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:32932-40. [PMID: 24092755 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.517011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recruitment of mRNA to the 40S ribosomal subunit requires the coordinated interaction of a large number of translation initiation factors. In mammals, the direct interaction between eukaryotic initiation factor 4G (eIF4G) and eIF3 is thought to act as the molecular bridge between the mRNA cap-binding complex and the 40S subunit. A discrete ∼90 amino acid domain in eIF4G is responsible for binding to eIF3, but the identity of the eIF3 subunit(s) involved is less clear. The eIF3e subunit has been shown to directly bind eIF4G, but the potential role of other eIF3 subunits in stabilizing this interaction has not been investigated. It is also not clear if the eIF4A helicase plays a role in stabilizing the interaction between eIF4G and eIF3. Here, we have used a fluorescence anisotropy assay to demonstrate that eIF4G binds to eIF3 independently of eIF4A binding to the middle region of eIF4G. By using a site-specific cross-linking approach, we unexpectedly show that the eIF4G-binding surface in eIF3 is comprised of the -c, -d and -e subunits. Screening multiple cross-linker positions reveals that eIF4G contains two distinct eIF3-binding subdomains within the previously identified eIF3-binding domain. Finally, by employing an eIF4G-dependent translation assay, we establish that both of these subdomains are required for efficient mRNA recruitment to the ribosome and stimulate translation. Our study reveals unexpected complexity to the eIF3-eIF4G interaction that provides new insight into the regulation of mRNA recruitment to the human ribosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Villa
- From the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, College of Biological Sciences, and
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Taylor NMI, Baudin F, von Scheven G, Müller CW. RNA polymerase III-specific general transcription factor IIIC contains a heterodimer resembling TFIIF Rap30/Rap74. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 41:9183-96. [PMID: 23921640 PMCID: PMC3799434 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription of tRNA-encoding genes by RNA polymerase (Pol) III requires the six-subunit general transcription factor IIIC that uses subcomplexes τA and τB to recognize two gene-internal promoter elements named A- and B-box. The Schizosaccharomyces pombe τA subcomplex comprises subunits Sfc1, Sfc4 and Sfc7. The crystal structure of the Sfc1/Sfc7 heterodimer reveals similar domains and overall domain architecture to the Pol II-specific general transcription factor TFIIF Rap30/Rap74. The N-terminal Sfc1/Sfc7 dimerization module consists of a triple β-barrel similar to the N-terminal TFIIF Rap30/Rap74 dimerization module, whereas the C-terminal Sfc1 DNA-binding domain contains a winged-helix domain most similar to the TFIIF Rap30 C-terminal winged-helix domain. Sfc1 DNA-binding domain recognizes single and double-stranded DNA by an unknown mechanism. Several features observed for A-box recognition by τA resemble the recognition of promoters by bacterial RNA polymerase, where σ factor unfolds double-stranded DNA and stabilizes the non-coding DNA strand in an open conformation. Such a function has also been proposed for TFIIF, suggesting that the observed structural similarity between Sfc1/Sfc7 and TFIIF Rap30/Rap74 might also reflect similar functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M I Taylor
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany and UJF-EMBL-CNRS UMI 3265, Unit of Virus Host-Cell Interactions, 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
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Arimbasseri AG, Rijal K, Maraia RJ. Transcription termination by the eukaryotic RNA polymerase III. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2013; 1829:318-30. [PMID: 23099421 PMCID: PMC3568203 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2012.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Revised: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
RNA polymerase (pol) III transcribes a multitude of tRNA and 5S rRNA genes as well as other small RNA genes distributed through the genome. By being sequence-specific, precise and efficient, transcription termination by pol III not only defines the 3' end of the nascent RNA which directs subsequent association with the stabilizing La protein, it also prevents transcription into downstream DNA and promotes efficient recycling. Each of the RNA polymerases appears to have evolved unique mechanisms to initiate the process of termination in response to different types of termination signals. However, in eukaryotes much less is known about the final stage of termination, destabilization of the elongation complex with release of the RNA and DNA from the polymerase active center. By comparison to pols I and II, pol III exhibits the most direct coupling of the initial and final stages of termination, both of which occur at a short oligo(dT) tract on the non-template strand (dA on the template) of the DNA. While pol III termination is autonomous involving the core subunits C2 and probably C1, it also involves subunits C11, C37 and C53, which act on the pol III catalytic center and exhibit homology to the pol II elongation factor TFIIS and TFIIFα/β respectively. Here we compile knowledge of pol III termination and associate mutations that affect this process with structural elements of the polymerase that illustrate the importance of C53/37 both at its docking site on the pol III lobe and in the active center. The models suggest that some of these features may apply to the other eukaryotic pols. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Transcription by Odd Pols.
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Distinguishing core and holoenzyme mechanisms of transcription termination by RNA polymerase III. Mol Cell Biol 2013; 33:1571-81. [PMID: 23401852 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.01733-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription termination by RNA polymerase (Pol) III serves multiple purposes; it delimits interference with downstream genes, forms 3' oligo(U) binding sites for the posttranscriptional processing factor, La protein, and resets the polymerase complex for reinitiation. Although an interplay of several Pol III subunits is known to collectively control these activities, how they affect molecular function of the active center during termination is incompletely understood. We have approached this using immobilized Pol III-nucleic acid scaffolds to examine the two major components of termination, transcription pausing and RNA release. This allowed us to distinguish two mechanisms of termination by isolated Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pol III. A core mechanism can operate in the absence of C53/37 and C11 subunits but requires synthesis of 8 or more 3' U nucleotides, apparently reflecting inherent sensitivity to an oligo(rU·dA) hybrid that is the termination signal proper. The holoenzyme mechanism requires fewer U nucleotides but uses C53/37 and C11 to slow elongation and prevent terminator arrest. N-terminal truncation of C53 or point mutations that disable the cleavage activity of C11 impair their antiarrest activities. The data are consistent with a model in which C53, C37, and C11 activities are functionally integrated with the active center of Pol III during termination.
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