ERCC3 Antibody

This gene encodes an ATP-dependent DNA helicase that functions in nucleotide excision repair. The encoded protein is a subunit of basal transcription factor 2 (TFIIH) and, therefore, also functions in class II transcription. Mutations in this gene are associated with Xeroderma pigmentosum B, Cockayne's syndrome, and trichothiodystrophy. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2014]

ATP-dependent 3'-5' DNA helicase, component of the general transcription and DNA repair factor IIH (TFIIH) core complex, which is involved in general and transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (NER) of damaged DNA and, when complexed to CAK, in RNA transcription by RNA polymerase II. In NER, TFIIH acts by opening DNA around the lesion to allow the excision of the damaged oligonucleotide and its replacement by a new DNA fragment. The ATPase activity of XPB/ERCC3, but not its helicase activity, is required for DNA opening. In transcription, TFIIH has an essential role in transcription initiation. When the pre-initiation complex (PIC) has been established, TFIIH is required for promoter opening and promoter escape. The ATP-dependent helicase activity of XPB/ERCC3 is required for promoter opening and promoter escape. Phosphorylation of the C-terminal tail (CTD) of the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II by the kinase module CAK controls the initiation of transcription.