Evolution of Complex RNA Polymerases: The Complete Archaeal RNA Polymerase Structure

Journal Article · Wed Jun 10 04:00:00 EDT 2009 · PLoS Biol.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.1000102· OSTI ID:1005659

Korkhin, Yakov; Unligil, Ulug M; Littlefield, Otis; Nelson, Pamlea J; Stuart, David I; Sigler, Paul B; Bell, Stephen D; Abrescia, Nicola G.A.; Yale,; Harvard-Med,; Oxford,

The archaeal RNA polymerase (RNAP) shares structural similarities with eukaryotic RNAP II but requires a reduced subset of general transcription factors for promoter-dependent initiation. To deepen our knowledge of cellular transcription, we have determined the structure of the 13-subunit DNA-directed RNAP from Sulfolobus shibatae at 3.35 {angstrom} resolution. The structure contains the full complement of subunits, including RpoG/Rpb8 and the equivalent of the clamp-head and jaw domains of the eukaryotic Rpb1. Furthermore, we have identified subunit Rpo13, an RNAP component in the order Sulfolobales, which contains a helix-turn-helix motif that interacts with the RpoH/Rpb5 and RpoA'/Rpb1 subunits. Its location and topology suggest a role in the formation of the transcription bubble.

• Research Organization: Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 1005659
• Journal Information: PLoS Biol., Journal Name: PLoS Biol. Journal Issue: (5) ; 05, 2009 Vol. 7
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: ENGLISH

Related Subjects

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
COMPLEMENT
RESOLUTION
RNA POLYMERASES
TOPOLOGY
TRANSCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS