A backbone model of ten subunits of yeast RNA polymerase II has been derived from the ongoing analysis of its crystal structure. Notable features include ‘jaws’ for holding DNA, a putatively RNA-regulated ‘sliding clamp’, two ‘pores’ located in the vicinity of the catalytic center, and a high degree of similarity with the structure of a bacterial RNA polymerase.
- E. Peter Geiduschek
- Michael S. Bartlett
