In all organisms, RNA synthesis is carried out by proteins known as RNA polymerases (RNAPs) that transcribe the genetic information from DNA in a highly-regulated, multi-stage process. RNAP is the key enzyme involved in creating an equivalent RNA copy of a sequence of DNA. This transcription is the first step leading to gene expression. While the major steps in RNA synthesis have been known for several decades, scientists have only recently begun to decipher the detailed molecular steps of the complex transcription process.
In research published in the July 1, 2010 online Early Edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, University of Maryland biophysicists Devarajan (Dave) Thirumalai and Jie Chen, along with Rockefeller University collaborator Seth Darst, provide new insight into how the transcription process is initiated and the role that RNA polymerase plays in making this happen. Because the sequence, structure, and function of multi-subunit RNA polymerase are universally conserved in all organisms -- from bacteria to humans -- understanding the mechanisms of bacterial gene transcription is an important step in deciphering the role of genetics in disease.
"Previously, people didn't know the precise role of RNA polymerase in initiating transcription," explains Distinguished University Professor Dave Thirumalai (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Institute for Physical Science and Technology), "but we showed that it plays an important role in forming the transcription bubble and in the process of bending the DNA to facilitate entry of DNA into the active site. That is the process we described computationally."
Their simulation of the initiation phase of transcription in bacterial RNA polymerase showed a three-step process. It begins when the RNA polymerase binds with transcription promoting regions of DNA. Through interactions with the RNA polymerase, the DNA helix then unwinds, forming an open "bubble"
'/>"/>
| Contact: Kelly Blake kellyb@umd.edu University of Maryland Source:Eurekalert |
Related biology news :
1. Scientists identify new potential biocontrol for skunk vine
2. A*STAR scientists score hat-trick against cancer
3. Scientists use computer algorithms to develop seasonal flu vaccines
4. Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation awards prestigious fellowships to 18 top young scientists
5. PNNL scientists win 4 R&D 100 awards for environment, biology, security technologies
6. Scientists describe 2 new species of fish from area engulfed by oil spill
7. Marine scientists return with rare creatures from the deep
8. Scientists find direct line from development to growth
9. UM School of Medicine scientists develop new strategy that may improve cognition
10. Honey as an antibiotic: Scientists identify a secret ingredient in honey that kills bacteria
11. NOAA-supported scientists predict larger than average Gulf dead zone
| Copyright © 2003-2012 Bio-Medicine. All rights reserved. ABOUT | CONTACT US | DISCLAIMER | PRIVACY POLICY | TERMS AND CONDITIONS |  |