Polymerase III Polypeptide K (POLR3K) Human Recombinant Protein

This gene encodes a small essential subunit of RNA polymerase III, the polymerase responsible for synthesizing transfer and small ribosomal RNAs in eukaryotes. The carboxy-terminal domain of this subunit shares a high degree of sequence similarity to the carboxy-terminal domain of an RNA polymerase II elongation factor. This similarity in sequence is supported by functional studies showing that this subunit is required for proper pausing and termination during transcription. Pseudogenes of this gene are found on chromosomes 13 and 17.[provided by RefSeq, Jul 2010]

POLR3K: DNA-dependent RNA polymerase catalyzes the transcription of DNA into RNA using the four ribonucleoside triphosphates as substrates. Component of RNA polymerase III which synthesizes small RNAs, such as 5S rRNA and tRNAs. Plays a key role in sensing and limiting infection by intracellular bacteria and DNA viruses. Acts as nuclear and cytosolic DNA sensor involved in innate immune response. Can sense non-self dsDNA that serves as template for transcription into dsRNA. The non-self RNA polymerase III transcripts, such as Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNAs (EBERs) induce type I interferon and NF- Kappa-B through the RIG-I pathway. Belongs to the archaeal RpoM/eukaryotic RPA12/RPB9/RPC11 RNA polymerase family.

Protein type: Transcription initiation complex; Transferase; DNA-binding

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 16p13.3

Cellular Component: nucleoplasm; DNA-directed RNA polymerase III complex; cytosol

Molecular Function: DNA binding; zinc ion binding; DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity

Biological Process: transcription from RNA polymerase III promoter; termination of RNA polymerase III transcription; positive regulation of interferon type I production; innate immune response; gene expression; defense response to virus; RNA elongation from RNA polymerase III promoter