Article Abstract:
The gene of E2F, a cellular DNA-binding protein that enables adenoviruses to use the cells' transcription and replication mechanisms, has been cloned for the first time. Since 1988 scientists have been examining E2F and the closely related E21 to gain a better understanding of transcriptional regulation. Now two groups, one led by K. Helin and the other by W. Kaelin, report the cloning of the complementary DNA encoding E2F. This cloning was achieved due to retinoblastoma protein's ability to interact with E2F.
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Article Abstract:
Myc and Ras activities are known to play a key role in permitting cell-cycle progression. Indeed, inhibition of Ras activity has been found to block the normal growth-dependent activation of G1 cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK). It also leads to cell-cycle arrest in G1. It appears that Ras is needed for the generation of G1 CDK activity. Ras and Myc working together in the G1 CDK/Rb/E2F pathway are particularly important for activation of cyclin E-dependent kinase.
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Article Abstract:
Sigma-54, a specialized transcription factor, is solely responsible for promoter DNA binding that allows RNA polymerase holoenzyme to link with promoter DNA. This contact is essential to transcription and the assembly of specific complexes on DNA. These complexes are produced by the DNA-binding properties of sigma-54. This strategy for producing transcription resembles what has been suggested for eukaryotic RNA polymerase II systems.
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