Subunit architecture and functional modular rearrangements of the transcriptional mediator complex

Kuang Lei Tsai, Chieri Tomomori-Sato, Shigeo Sato, Ronald C. Conaway, Joan W. Conaway, Francisco J. Asturias

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

160 Scopus citations

Abstract

The multisubunit Mediator, comprising ∼30 distinct proteins, plays an essential role in gene expression regulation by acting as a bridge between DNA-binding transcription factors and the RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription machinery. Efforts to uncover the Mediator mechanism have been hindered by a poor understanding of its structure, subunit organization, and conformational rearrangements. By overcoming biochemical and image analysis hurdles, we obtained accurate EM structures of yeast and human Mediators. Subunit localization experiments, docking of partial X-ray structures, and biochemical analyses resulted in comprehensive mapping of yeast Mediator subunits and a complete reinterpretation of our previous Mediator organization model. Large-scale Mediator rearrangements depend on changes at the interfaces between previously described Mediator modules, which appear to be facilitated by factors conducive to transcription initiation. Conservation across eukaryotes of Mediator structure, subunit organization, and RNA polymerase II interaction suggest conservation of fundamental aspects of the Mediator mechanism.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1430-1444
Number of pages15
JournalCell
Volume157
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 5 2014
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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