TFIIS Activators

TFIIS, also known as Transcription Factor IIS, is a protein that is encoded by the TCEA1 gene in humans. It's part of the general transcription factors group, which are essential for the process of transcription, where genetic information from DNA is copied to messenger RNA (mRNA).TFIIS has a crucial role in RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcription elongation. During transcription, Pol II can occasionally stall, which disrupts the transcription process. TFIIS assists by promoting the cleavage of the nascent RNA, allowing Pol II to backtrack and correct errors, and then resume transcription. This makes TFIIS a critical factor for ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of transcription.Structurally, TFIIS is characterized by its C-terminal domain, which directly interacts with Pol II, and its unique zinc ribbon motif, which is essential for its RNA cleavage activity.

Given its fundamental role in transcription, TFIIS is involved in many biological processes where gene expression is required. Dysregulation of TFIIS activity leads to transcriptional errors and the production of faulty proteins, contributing to various diseases. For instance, there's emerging evidence linking TFIIS dysregulation to cancer.Moreover, TFIIS also participates in the cellular response to DNA damage. It's involved in transcription-coupled DNA repair, a mechanism that preferentially repairs actively transcribed genes.In summary, TFIIS is a critical factor involved in the transcription process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency of RNA synthesis. Its significance in transcription and DNA repair highlights its implications in understanding disease mechanisms, particularly those related to transcriptional errors and DNA damage.