Steven M Hahn

..Together, our results show an unexpected architecture of minimal open complexes and the regulation of activity by TFIIF and the TFIIB core domain...

..We also examine advances in understanding the RNA polymerase II transcription machinery, conserved coactivator complexes, transcription activation domains, and the cooperation of these factors in gene regulatory mechanisms...

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..The TFIIF subunit Tfg1 was found in close proximity to the TFIIB B finger, linker, and core domains, suggesting that these two factors closely cooperate during initiation...

..Consistent with this mechanism, mutations far from the enzyme active site, which alter the binding of either structured TFIIF domains to Pol II, have similar defects in transcription start site usage...

..The results demonstrate that TFIIS is a PIC component that is required for efficient formation and/or stability of the complex...

..This surface is best conserved in polymerases that require a TFIIB-like factor. Our results suggest a general mechanism for interaction of TFIIB-like factors and RNA polymerases and a mechanism for the function of the ribbon domain...

..Together, our results show how the general factors and Pol II converge on promoter DNA within the PIC...

..Thus, a single activating region contacts multiple factors, and each contact makes differential contributions to transcriptional activation...

..In addition to the previously known substrate, the Pol II CTD, it was found that Kin28 phosphorylates two subunits of Mediator and Srb10 targets two subunits of TFIID for phosphorylation...

..These results suggest that both the Pol II-Med and Pol II-TFIIF complexes can be recruited for transcription initiation but that only the Pol II-TFIIF complex is competent for transcription reinitiation...

..Our results show that Tra1 recruitment at Gcn4-dependent and Rap1-dependent promoters requires the same regions of Tra1 and that separate regions of Tra1 contribute to the HAT activity and stability of the SAGA and NuA4 HAT modules...

..The identification of a new, evolutionarily conserved, core TFIIH subunit is essential for our understanding of TFIIH function in transcription, DNA repair and human disease...

..Genetic results suggest that Bur1 is essential for growth because it targets multiple factors that play distinct roles in transcription...

..Together with previous biochemical and structural studies, these findings illuminate the structural organization of the PIC and the network of protein-protein interactions involved in transcription start site selection...

..The conference will also provide an up to date view of one of the most rapidly moving fields in biology. ..

..Analog-sensitive versions of these kinases will be utilized to identify relevant kinase targets. In vitro and in vivo assays will be used to determine the mechanisms whereby kinase activity regulates transcription. ..

..Our proposed work will illuminate important mechanisms and principles of transcriptional regulation. ..

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..His work will involve molecular techniques (gene cloning, mutagenesis, and PCR), biochemical fractionation, in vitro transcription, protein biochemistry, and yeast molecular genetics. ..

..Finally, the target of the zinc ribbon domains in TFIIB and Brf will be identified, comparing the role of these domains in Pol II and III transcription. ..

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