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TFIIF-TAF-RNA polymerase II connection
N L Henry1, A M Campbell, W J Feaver
1Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, California 94305.
Genes & Development
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Researchers identified a yeast homolog of the RNA polymerase II transcription factor IIF (TFIIF), revealing essential subunits Tfg1 and Tfg2. A third subunit, Tfg3, links TFIIF to the mediator complex and actin cytoskeleton, impacting transcription.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Yeast Genetics
- Transcription Regulation
Background:
- RNA polymerase II transcription factor IIF (TFIIF) is crucial for initiating transcription at most promoters.
- Understanding TFIIF homologs in different organisms aids in deciphering conserved transcription mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clone and sequence genes encoding the yeast homolog of mammalian TFIIF.
- To characterize the subunits and functions of the yeast TFIIF complex.
Main Methods:
- Gene cloning and sequencing in yeast.
- Analysis of subunit composition and function.
- Investigating gene deletion effects on transcription.
Main Results:
- Identified a yeast TFIIF homolog with two essential subunits (Tfg1, Tfg2) similar to mammalian TFIIF.
- Discovered a third, non-essential subunit (Tfg3) that is identical to yeast TAF30/ANC1.
- Tfg3 is part of the mediator complex and its deletion diminishes in vivo transcription.
Conclusions:
- Yeast TFIIF shares essential subunits with its mammalian counterpart, highlighting conserved transcription machinery.
- The Tfg3 subunit reveals a novel link between TFIIF, the mediator complex, and actin cytoskeletal function.
- Tfg3 plays a stimulatory role in transcription and is essential for yeast cell viability.