Transcription Elongation Factor A (SII)-1, also known as TCEA1, is a crucial protein involved in the transcription process of eukaryotic cells. It plays a significant role in the elongation phase of transcription by RNA polymerase II, ensuring the proper synthesis of RNA from DNA templates. The recombinant form of this protein, produced through genetic engineering techniques, has been extensively studied to understand its structure, function, and potential applications in research and medicine.
TCEA1 is a member of the TFIIS family of transcription elongation factors. It is composed of approximately 280 amino acids and is characterized by its ability to stimulate RNA polymerase II during the elongation phase of transcription . The protein helps to resolve transcriptional arrest by inducing RNA polymerase II to cleave the nascent RNA, allowing transcription to resume. This activity is essential for maintaining the fidelity and efficiency of gene expression.
The cDNA for human TCEA1 has been successfully cloned and expressed in bacterial systems, such as E. coli, using the T7 expression system . This recombinant protein is nearly identical to its native counterpart, with minor differences in the amino-terminal region that do not affect its functional properties. The recombinant TCEA1 has been shown to exist as a dimer in solution and retains its ability to stimulate transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II .
TCEA1 is vital for the proper regulation of gene expression. During transcription elongation, RNA polymerase II can encounter obstacles that cause it to pause or arrest. TCEA1 helps to overcome these obstacles by promoting the cleavage of the nascent RNA, allowing transcription to continue. This function is particularly important in the context of cellular stress and DNA damage, where efficient transcriptional responses are necessary for cell survival and adaptation.
Recombinant TCEA1 has been utilized in various research applications to study the mechanisms of transcription elongation and its regulation. It serves as a valuable tool for dissecting the molecular interactions between RNA polymerase II and other transcription factors. Additionally, understanding the role of TCEA1 in transcriptional regulation has implications for diseases such as cancer, where dysregulation of gene expression is a common feature .