Interaction of PC4 with Melted DNA Inhibits Transcription

Overview

Journal EMBO J

Specialties Biotechnology
Molecular Biology

Date 1998 Sep 2

PMID 9724646

Citations 32

Authors

S Werten

G Stelzer

A Goppelt

F M Langen

P Gros

H T Timmers

P C van der Vliet

M Meisterernst

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

PC4 is a nuclear DNA-binding protein that stimulates activator-dependent class II gene transcription in vitro. Recent biochemical and X-ray analyses have revealed a unique structure within the C-terminal domain of PC4 that binds tightly to unpaired double-stranded (ds)DNA. The cellular function of this evolutionarily conserved dimeric DNA-binding fold is unknown. Here we demonstrate that PC4 represses transcription through this motif. Interaction with melted promoters is not required for activator-dependent transcription in vitro. The inhibitory activity is attenuated on bona fide promoters by (i) transcription factor TFIIH and (ii) phosphorylation of PC4. PC4 remains a potent inhibitor of transcription in regions containing unpaired ds DNA, in single-stranded DNA that can fold into two antiparallel strands, and on DNA ends. Our observations are consistent with a novel inhibitory function of PC4.

Citing Articles

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