The RNA Pol II sub-complex hsRpb4/7 is required for viability of multiple human cell lines.
10.1007/s13238-012-2085-7
- Author:
Yang ZHAO
1
;
Kim K C LI
;
King Pan NG
;
Chi Ho NG
;
Kevin A W LEE
Author Information
1. Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Sai Kung, Hong Kong SAR China.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Cell Line;
Cell Nucleus;
metabolism;
Cell Survival;
drug effects;
Gene Expression Profiling;
HeLa Cells;
Humans;
RNA Interference;
RNA Polymerase II;
antagonists & inhibitors;
genetics;
metabolism;
RNA, Small Interfering;
pharmacology
- From:
Protein & Cell
2012;3(11):846-854
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The evolutionarily conserved RNA Polymerase II Rpb4/7 sub-complex has been thoroughly studied in yeast and impacts gene expression at multiple levels including transcription, mRNA processing and decay. In addition Rpb4/7 exerts differential effects on gene expression in yeast and Rpb4 is not obligatory for yeast (S. cerevisiae) survival. Specialised roles for human (hs) Rpb4/7 have not been extensively described and we have probed this question by depleting hsRpb4/7 in established human cell lines using RNA interference. We find that Rpb4/7 protein levels are inter-dependent and accordingly, the functional effects of depleting either protein are co-incident. hsRpb4/7 exhibits gene-specific effects and cells initially remain viable upon hsRpb4/7 depletion. However prolonged hsRpb4/7 depletion is cytotoxic in the range of cell lines tested. Protracted cell death occurs by an unknown mechanism and in some cases is accompanied by a pronounced elongated cell morphology. In conclusion we provide evidence for a gene-specific role of hsRpb4/7 in human cell viability.
