My lab uses genetics and biochemistry to investigate
the transcription apparatus in eukaryotes, focusing
on RNA polymerase II and factors affecting its activity.
We are currently focusing our attention on determining
physiological roles for the unique C-terminal repeat
domain (CTD) of the largest RNA polymerase II subunit,
which is hyperphosphorylated during transcript elongation.
We isolated the first CTD kinase, yeast CTDK-I, and
are characterizing it in some detail. We are also
discovering novel phosphoCTD-associating proteins
("PCAPs") that have roles in pre-mRNA processing
and in other RNA and DNA transactions. Recently we
identified yeast and mammalian PCAPs with known or
suspected epigenetic functions that are important
in regulating gene expression during differentiation
and development. Student trainees participate actively
in all aspects of the lab's activities.
