Polymerase (DNA Directed), Epsilon 3 Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) I (DNA directed) Polypeptide C Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) II (DNA directed) Polypeptide C Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) II (DNA directed) Polypeptide H Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) II (DNA directed) Polypeptide J Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) II (DNA directed) Polypeptide K Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) III (DNA directed) Polypeptide H Human Recombinant
Polymerase (RNA) (DNA directed) polypeptide, commonly known as DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, is an enzyme that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template. It is classified into several types based on the organism and the specific function it performs. In eukaryotes, there are three main types: RNA polymerase I, II, and III, each responsible for transcribing different classes of genes.
Key Biological Properties: DNA-dependent RNA polymerases are essential for the transcription process, converting genetic information from DNA into RNA. They possess catalytic activity that facilitates the addition of ribonucleotides to the growing RNA chain.
Expression Patterns: The expression of RNA polymerases is tightly regulated and varies depending on the cell type and developmental stage. For instance, RNA polymerase II is ubiquitously expressed in all eukaryotic cells due to its role in transcribing mRNA.
Tissue Distribution: RNA polymerases are found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. Their distribution can vary, with some being more abundant in tissues with high transcriptional activity, such as the liver and brain.
Primary Biological Functions: The primary function of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases is to transcribe DNA into RNA. This process is crucial for gene expression and the production of proteins.
Role in Immune Responses: RNA polymerases play a role in the immune response by transcribing genes involved in the production of cytokines and other immune-related proteins.
Pathogen Recognition: Some RNA polymerases are involved in the recognition of viral RNA, triggering antiviral responses.
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: RNA polymerases interact with various transcription factors and regulatory proteins to initiate and regulate transcription. They bind to promoter regions of DNA and unwind the DNA helix to access the template strand.
Binding Partners: RNA polymerases have several binding partners, including transcription factors, coactivators, and repressors, which modulate their activity.
Downstream Signaling Cascades: The activity of RNA polymerases can trigger downstream signaling cascades that influence cell growth, differentiation, and response to external stimuli.
Regulatory Mechanisms: The expression and activity of RNA polymerases are controlled by multiple regulatory mechanisms, including transcriptional regulation and post-translational modifications.
Transcriptional Regulation: Transcription factors and other regulatory proteins bind to specific DNA sequences to enhance or repress the transcription of RNA polymerase genes.
Post-Translational Modifications: RNA polymerases undergo various post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination, which can alter their activity and stability.
Biomedical Research: RNA polymerases are used in research to study gene expression and regulation. They are also employed in techniques such as reverse transcription and RNA sequencing.
Diagnostic Tools: RNA polymerases are utilized in diagnostic assays to detect the presence of specific RNA sequences, aiding in the diagnosis of diseases.
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting RNA polymerases has therapeutic potential in treating diseases such as cancer and viral infections. Inhibitors of RNA polymerases are being developed as antiviral and anticancer agents.
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: RNA polymerases play a critical role throughout the life cycle, from development to aging and disease. During development, they regulate the expression of genes necessary for cell differentiation and growth. In aging, changes in RNA polymerase activity can affect gene expression patterns, contributing to age-related diseases.