Abstract
Regulation of transcription is a key step in controlling gene expression in all cells. Many diseases and cancers result from alterations of gene expression caused by defects in transcription machinery. The basic structure and function of RNA polymerase (RNAP) and RNAP-associated proteins are conserved throughout evolution. Sophisticated genetics and advanced biochemistry make single-cell organisms, such as E. coli, an ideal model system to study the role of RNAP and transcription factors in gene expression and regulation. Studies of the simple model system have contributed greatly to our knowledge of transcription in principle, which underpin our understanding of gene regulation in much more complex eukaryotic organisms. In addition, studies of E. coli and other microorganisms have laid the foundation for the biotechnology industry. This chapter describes transcription machinery including RNAP and RNAP-associated proteins and regulation of transcription cycle in E. coli, with a focus on the unique feature of global regulation by RNAP (re)distribution in response to environment cues.
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