My lab uses genetics and biochemistry
to investigate the transcription apparatus
in eukaryotes, focusing on RNA polymerase
II and factors affecting its activity.
We are currently focusing our attention
on determining physiological roles
for the unique C-terminal repeat domain
(CTD) of the largest RNA polymerase
II subunit, which is hyperphosphorylated
during transcript elongation. We isolated
the first CTD kinase, yeast CTDK-I,
and are characterizing it in some detail.
We are also discovering novel phosphoCTD-associating
proteins ("PCAPs") that have
roles in pre-mRNA processing and in
other RNA and DNA transactions. Recently
we identified yeast and mammalian PCAPs
with known or suspected epigenetic
functions that are important in regulating
gene expression during differentiation
and development. Student trainees participate
actively in all aspects of the lab's
activities.
