Multiple pathways to bypass the enhancer requirement of sigma 54 RNA polymerase: Roles for DNA and protein determinants

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.94.18.9538
• Publication Date: 2002-07-26T14:35:50Z
• Authors: Jonathan T. Wang; Adeela Syed; Jay D. Gralla
• Keywords: Sigma factor; Transcription

Sigma 54 is a required factor for bacterial RNA polymerase to respond enhancers and directs mechanism that hybrid between eukaryotic transcription. Three pathways were found bypass the enhancer requirement in vitro . These rely on either deletion of sigma N terminus or destruction DNA consensus −12 promoter recognition element altering solution conditions favor transient melting. Each these allows unstable heparin-sensitive pre-initiation complexes form can be driven transcribe absence both protein ATP β–γ hydrolysis. disparate are proposed have common basis multiple N-terminal contacts may mediate interactions region where melting originates. The results raise possibilities features open complex formation by different polymerases.