RNA polymerase II core promoter sequence-specific DNA binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to a DNA sequence that is part of the core promoter of a RNA polymerase II-transcribed gene. [GOC:pg, GOC:txnOH, PMID:12381658]

RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) core promoter sequence-specific DNA binding is a fundamental process in eukaryotic gene transcription. RNAP II, the primary enzyme responsible for synthesizing messenger RNA (mRNA), requires precise recognition and binding to specific DNA sequences within the core promoter region of a gene to initiate transcription. This binding event sets the stage for the recruitment of other transcription factors and the formation of a pre-initiation complex (PIC), ultimately leading to mRNA synthesis.

The core promoter is typically located upstream of the gene's transcription start site (TSS) and contains conserved sequence elements that are recognized by specific transcription factors. These elements include the TATA box, the initiator (Inr), the downstream promoter element (DPE), and the motif ten element (MTE).

RNAP II binding to the core promoter is mediated by the general transcription factors (GTFs), which are a set of proteins that assemble at the promoter and facilitate the recruitment and function of RNAP II. The key GTFs involved in this process include:

- **TFIIB**: Binds to the TATA box and recruits RNAP II to the promoter.
- **TFIIH**: Possesses both helicase and kinase activities. Its helicase activity unwinds DNA at the promoter, while its kinase activity phosphorylates the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNAP II, triggering the transition from initiation to elongation.
- **TFIIF**: Stabilizes the binding of RNAP II to the promoter and recruits TFIIH.

The binding of RNAP II to the core promoter is a highly regulated process that involves a series of intricate interactions between the enzyme, GTFs, and the DNA sequence. This precise recognition and binding ensure that transcription is initiated at the correct location and at the appropriate time.

The core promoter sequence-specific DNA binding by RNAP II plays a critical role in gene expression regulation. By controlling the initiation of transcription, it influences the levels of mRNA produced, ultimately determining the amount of protein synthesized. This process is essential for various cellular functions, including development, metabolism, and response to environmental stimuli.'
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Proteins (8)

Compounds (223)