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The RNA Pol II sub-complex hsRpb4/7 is required for viability of multiple human cell lines

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  • Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Sai Kung, Hong Kong S.A.R. China

Received date: 12 Aug 2012

Accepted date: 10 Sep 2012

Published date: 01 Nov 2012

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.

Cite this article

Yang Zhao, Kim K.C. Li, King Pan Ng, Chi Ho Ng, Kevin A.W. Lee . The RNA Pol II sub-complex hsRpb4/7 is required for viability of multiple human cell lines[J]. Protein & Cell, 2012 , 3(11) : 846 -854 . DOI: 10.1007/s13238-012-2085-7

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