Transcription by RNA polymerase III: insights into mechanism and regulation

Biochem Soc Trans. 2016 Oct 15;44(5):1367-1375. doi: 10.1042/BST20160062.

Abstract

The highly abundant, small stable RNAs that are synthesized by RNA polymerase III (RNAPIII) have key functional roles, particularly in the protein synthesis apparatus. Their expression is metabolically demanding, and is therefore coupled to changing demands for protein synthesis during cell growth and division. Here, we review the regulatory mechanisms that control the levels of RNAPIII transcripts and discuss their potential physiological relevance. Recent analyses have revealed differential regulation of tRNA expression at all steps on its biogenesis, with significant deregulation of mature tRNAs in cancer cells.

Keywords: RNA polymerase III; tRNA; transcription elongation; transcription factors.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic / genetics
  • Protein Binding
  • RNA Polymerase III / metabolism*
  • RNA, Transfer / genetics*
  • RNA, Transfer / metabolism
  • Transcription Factors, TFIII / metabolism
  • Transcription, Genetic*

Substances

  • Transcription Factors, TFIII
  • RNA, Transfer
  • RNA Polymerase III