RNA polymerase II complex binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to an RNA polymerase II core enzyme, a multisubunit eukaryotic nuclear RNA polymerase typically composed of twelve subunits. [GOC:txnOH]

RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) complex binding is a fundamental molecular process that underpins gene expression in eukaryotic organisms. It involves the intricate interaction between RNAP II, a multi-subunit enzyme responsible for transcribing DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA), and a diverse array of proteins and regulatory elements. This binding event is crucial for initiating and regulating the transcription process.

The RNAP II complex itself comprises a core set of subunits essential for catalytic activity, including two large subunits (RPB1 and RPB2) that harbor the active site for RNA synthesis. The complex also incorporates smaller subunits that play crucial roles in DNA unwinding, template engagement, and transcript elongation.

Upon binding to DNA, RNAP II interacts with a variety of transcription factors (TFs). These TFs bind to specific DNA sequences upstream of the gene, known as promoters, and serve as molecular switches that recruit and activate RNAP II. Key TFs include general transcription factors (GTFs), which are required for basal transcription, and specific transcription factors that regulate gene expression in response to cellular signals and environmental cues.

The interaction of RNAP II with DNA and TFs initiates a complex series of events that ultimately lead to mRNA synthesis. The RNAP II complex, guided by TFs, unwinds the DNA double helix, exposing the template strand. The enzyme then proceeds to synthesize a complementary RNA molecule using the template strand as a blueprint. This process involves the sequential addition of ribonucleotides to the growing RNA chain, guided by the base-pairing rules between DNA and RNA.

During transcription elongation, RNAP II interacts with various regulatory proteins that influence the efficiency and fidelity of mRNA synthesis. These proteins can modify the enzyme's activity, alter its association with DNA, or affect its interaction with other factors.

In summary, the molecular function of RNA polymerase II complex binding is a complex and tightly regulated process involving the interaction of multiple proteins, DNA, and regulatory elements. This binding event is essential for initiating and regulating gene expression, thereby playing a central role in cellular function, development, and response to environmental cues.'
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Proteins (5)

Compounds (14)