RpoC is the beta' subunit of bacterial DNA-directed RNA polymerase (RNAP) in Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough (formerly Desulfovibrio vulgaris). This essential enzyme subunit forms the catalytic core of the RNAP holoenzyme (alpha2-beta-beta'-omega) and contains the active site for phosphodiester bond formation during transcription. The beta' subunit houses the bridge helix (BH), trigger loop (TL), and clamp/switch regions that govern DNA loading, open-complex formation, nucleotide addition, and pausing/termination dynamics. RpoC binds 1 Mg2+ ion at the active site (essential for catalysis) and 2 Zn2+ ions that play structural roles. In D. vulgaris, RpoC (DVU_2929) has been experimentally validated through proteomics and protein-protein interaction studies showing its association with other RNAP subunits including RpoB.
| GO Term | Evidence | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
|
GO:0000287
magnesium ion binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000104 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: The beta' subunit of RNAP contains the catalytic active site with conserved aspartate residues (D466, D468, D470 in Q727C6) that coordinate Mg2+ ions essential for phosphodiester bond formation during transcription. This is a well-established core function of the RpoC subunit based on UniProt annotation and extensive structural studies of bacterial RNAP (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
Reason: Magnesium binding is essential for RNAP catalytic activity. The UniProt entry clearly documents Mg2+ binding at residues 466, 468, and 470 based on HAMAP rule MF_01322. The deep research confirms the active-site metals via FEL and structural work (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
Supporting Evidence:
UniProt:Q727C6
Binds 1 Mg(2+) ion per subunit
|
|
GO:0000428
DNA-directed RNA polymerase complex
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000043 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: RpoC is a core component of the bacterial RNAP complex (alpha2-beta-beta'-omega). DvH proteomics and PPI studies confirm that DVU_2929 (RpoC) co-purifies with other RNAP subunits including RpoB (PMID:26873250, PMID:27099342).
Reason: The beta' subunit is an integral component of the bacterial RNAP core enzyme. UniProt records experimental interaction evidence (IntAct) showing RpoC interacts with RpoB (Q727C7) with 4 experiments documented. This cellular component annotation accurately captures where RpoC functions.
Supporting Evidence:
UniProt:Q727C6
The RNAP catalytic core consists of 2 alpha, 1 beta, 1 beta' and 1 omega subunit
file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
DVU_2929 encodes RpoC (RNAP beta') in DvH, supported by direct locus mapping, proteomic detection, and PPI evidence
|
|
GO:0003677
DNA binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000120 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: RpoC contributes to DNA binding as part of the RNAP complex. The beta' subunit contains the clamp domain that contacts template DNA and helps maintain the transcription bubble. However, the beta' subunit alone is not the primary DNA-binding component - sigma factors provide promoter specificity.
Reason: While the beta' subunit does contact DNA as part of the RNAP complex (through clamp/switch regions that help hold the DNA template), this annotation is appropriate at a general level. The domain-based inference (InterPro domains IPR000722, IPR006592, etc.) correctly identifies this function. The clamp dynamics of beta' are essential for DNA loading and bubble maintenance (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
Recent (2023-2024) structural work refines initiation models centered on beta' clamp dynamics and sigma loading
|
|
GO:0003899
DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000120 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: This is the primary molecular function of the RNAP complex, and RpoC contains the catalytic site (EC 2.7.7.6). The beta' subunit houses the bridge helix and trigger loop motifs essential for the nucleotide addition cycle.
Reason: This annotation captures the core enzymatic function. While the complete RNAP complex is required for activity, the beta' subunit provides the active site residues for phosphodiester bond formation. The UniProt entry assigns EC 2.7.7.6 to this protein based on HAMAP annotation, and the deep research confirms the trigger loop functions in all three phases of the transcription cycle (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
Supporting Evidence:
UniProt:Q727C6
DNA-dependent RNA polymerase catalyzes the transcription of DNA into RNA using the four ribonucleoside triphosphates as substrates
file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
RpoC provides essential catalytic and structural functions - via BH, TL, and clamp/switch elements - in initiation, elongation, and termination
|
|
GO:0006351
DNA-templated transcription
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000120 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: RpoC participates in all phases of transcription: initiation (promoter DNA loading, bubble formation via clamp dynamics), elongation (nucleotide addition cycle via trigger loop/bridge helix), and termination.
Reason: This biological process annotation correctly captures the role of RpoC in transcription. The beta' subunit is essential for this process, and DVU_2929 has been quantified in DvH proteomes supporting its expression and function in the cell (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
Trigger loop functions in all three phases of the transcription cycle
|
|
GO:0008270
zinc ion binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000104 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: The beta' subunit contains two zinc-binding sites with conserved cysteine residues. In Q727C6, Zn2+ site 1 uses C75, C77, C90, C93, and Zn2+ site 2 uses residues at positions 809, 883, 890, 893. These zinc ions play structural roles in maintaining protein fold.
Reason: Zinc binding is well documented for the RpoC subunit. The UniProt entry annotates 8 zinc-binding residues forming two distinct sites based on HAMAP rule MF_01322. This structural metal binding is conserved across bacterial RNAP beta' subunits.
Supporting Evidence:
UniProt:Q727C6
Binds 2 Zn(2+) ions per subunit
|
|
GO:0016740
transferase activity
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000043 |
MARK AS OVER ANNOTATED |
Summary: This is a parent term of the more specific nucleotidyltransferase activity and DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity. While correct, it is too general.
Reason: This term is subsumed by the more specific GO:0003899 (DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity) and GO:0016779 (nucleotidyltransferase activity) annotations already present. Retaining this adds no additional information and represents redundant annotation at a less informative level.
|
|
GO:0016779
nucleotidyltransferase activity
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000043 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: This is a parent term of DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity. The annotation is correct but less specific than GO:0003899.
Reason: While GO:0003899 is more specific, this intermediate-level term from the UniProt keyword mapping is technically correct. The RNAP does transfer nucleotidyl groups (from NTPs to the growing RNA chain). This annotation is acceptable as a broader classification.
|
|
GO:0034062
5'-3' RNA polymerase activity
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000116 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: This annotation from Rhea mapping correctly captures the directionality of RNA synthesis. RNAP synthesizes RNA in the 5' to 3' direction, adding nucleotides to the 3'-OH of the growing chain.
Reason: This annotation based on the Rhea reaction mapping (RHEA:21248) is accurate and provides useful mechanistic information about the directionality of transcription. The reaction catalyzed is: RNA(n) + ribonucleoside 5'-triphosphate = RNA(n+1) + diphosphate.
Supporting Evidence:
UniProt:Q727C6
Reaction=RNA(n) + a ribonucleoside 5'-triphosphate = RNA(n+1) + diphosphate
|
|
GO:0046872
metal ion binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000043 |
MARK AS OVER ANNOTATED |
Summary: General metal ion binding term that encompasses both Mg2+ and Zn2+ binding by RpoC. This is a parent term of the more specific metal binding annotations.
Reason: This annotation is technically correct but is subsumed by the more specific GO:0000287 (magnesium ion binding) and GO:0008270 (zinc ion binding) annotations. The general term adds no additional information.
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:26873250 Bacterial Interactomes: Interacting Protein Partners Share S... |
MODIFY |
Summary: This IPI annotation is based on AP-MS protein-protein interaction data from a systematic D. vulgaris interactome study. RpoC was shown to interact with RpoB (Q727C7), which is biologically expected as these are adjacent subunits in the RNAP complex (PMID:26873250).
Reason: While the protein binding annotation captures a true interaction, "protein binding" (GO:0005515) is uninformative. The specific interaction is with RpoB within the RNAP complex. A more informative annotation would be to GO:0000428 (DNA-directed RNA polymerase complex) as a cellular component annotation, which already exists. The molecular function annotation should reflect the specific binding context.
Proposed replacements:
RNAP core enzyme binding
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:26873250
We have identified 459 high confidence PPIs from D. vulgaris
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:27099342 Quantitative Tagless Copurification: A Method to Validate an... |
MODIFY |
Summary: This IPI annotation is from a quantitative tagless copurification study confirming RpoC-RpoB interaction through orthogonal chromatography steps. The interaction with Q727C7 (RpoB) was validated by copurification (PMID:27099342).
Reason: Same rationale as the previous protein binding annotation. The evidence supports physical interaction between RpoC and RpoB within the RNAP complex, but "protein binding" is too general. The tagless copurification method provides independent validation of the RNAP subunit interactions.
Proposed replacements:
RNAP core enzyme binding
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:27099342
Protein partners from our D. vulgaris and E. coli AP-MS interactomes copurify as frequently as pairs belonging to three benchmark data sets of well-characterized PPIs
|
Q: Are there organism-specific features of the N. vulgaris RpoC that differ from E. coli or other model bacteria, particularly in regions targeted by antibiotics?
Q: Does N. vulgaris RpoC have any trigger loop insertions (like Si3 in cyanobacteria) that might affect its regulatory properties?
Experiment: Structural characterization of purified N. vulgaris RNAP by cryo-EM to determine if there are species-specific structural features. Most RNAP structural knowledge comes from E. coli, Thermus, and mycobacteria. Deltaproteobacteria like N. vulgaris may have unique features.
Experiment: Test susceptibility of N. vulgaris to fidaxomicin and myxopyronin-class RNAP inhibitors that target the clamp/switch region. These antibiotics target conserved beta'/sigma interfaces but species-specific sensitivities exist.
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model: Edison Scientific Literature
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template_file: templates/gene_research_go_focused.md
template_variables:
organism: DESVH
gene_id: Q727C6
gene_symbol: rpoC
uniprot_accession: Q727C6
protein_description: 'RecName: Full=DNA-directed RNA polymerase subunit beta'' {ECO:0000255|HAMAP-Rule:MF_01322};
Short=RNAP subunit beta'' {ECO:0000255|HAMAP-Rule:MF_01322}; EC=2.7.7.6 {ECO:0000255|HAMAP-Rule:MF_01322};
AltName: Full=RNA polymerase subunit beta'' {ECO:0000255|HAMAP-Rule:MF_01322};
AltName: Full=Transcriptase subunit beta'' {ECO:0000255|HAMAP-Rule:MF_01322};'
gene_info: Name=rpoC {ECO:0000255|HAMAP-Rule:MF_01322}; OrderedLocusNames=DVU_2929;
organism_full: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain ATCC 29579 / DSM 644 / CCUG
34227 / NCIMB 8303 / VKM B-1760 / Hildenborough) (Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
protein_family: Belongs to the RNA polymerase beta' chain family.
protein_domains: DNA-dir_RpoC_beta_prime. (IPR045867); DNA-dir_RpoC_beta_prime_bact.
(IPR012754); RNA_pol_asu. (IPR000722); RNA_pol_N. (IPR006592); RNA_pol_Rpb1_1.
(IPR007080)
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citation_count: 39
BEFORE YOU BEGIN RESEARCH: You MUST verify you are researching the CORRECT gene/protein. Gene symbols can be ambiguous, especially for less well-characterized genes from non-model organisms.
DO NOT PROCEED WITH RESEARCH ON A DIFFERENT GENE. Instead:
- State clearly: "The gene symbol 'rpoC' is ambiguous or literature is limited for this specific protein"
- Explain what you found (e.g., "Found extensive literature on a different gene with the same symbol in a different organism")
- Describe the protein based ONLY on the UniProt information provided above
- Suggest that the protein function can be inferred from domain/family information
Please provide a comprehensive research report on the gene rpoC (gene ID: Q727C6, UniProt: Q727C6) in DESVH.
The research report should be a detailed narrative explaining the function, biological processes, and localization of the gene product. Citations should be given for all claims.
You should prioritize authoritative reviews and primary scientific literature when conducting research. You can supplement
this with annotations you find in gene/protein databases, but these can be outdated or inaccurate.
We are specifically interested in the primary function of the gene - for enzymes, what reaction is catalyzed, and what is the substrate specificity? For transporters, what is the substrate? For structural proteins or adapters, what is the broader structural role? For signaling molecules, what is the role in the pathway.
We are interested in where in or outside the cell the gene product carries out its function.
We are also interested in the signaling or biochemical pathways in which the gene functions. We are less interested in broad pleiotropic effects, except where these elucidate the precise role.
Include evidence where possible. We are interested in both experimental evidence as well as inference from structure, evolution, or bioinformatic analysis. Precise studies should be prioritized over high-throughput, where available.
Question: You are an expert researcher providing comprehensive, well-cited information.
Provide detailed information focusing on:
1. Key concepts and definitions with current understanding
2. Recent developments and latest research (prioritize 2023-2024 sources)
3. Current applications and real-world implementations
4. Expert opinions and analysis from authoritative sources
5. Relevant statistics and data from recent studies
Format as a comprehensive research report with proper citations. Include URLs and publication dates where available.
Always prioritize recent, authoritative sources and provide specific citations for all major claims.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN RESEARCH: You MUST verify you are researching the CORRECT gene/protein. Gene symbols can be ambiguous, especially for less well-characterized genes from non-model organisms.
DO NOT PROCEED WITH RESEARCH ON A DIFFERENT GENE. Instead:
- State clearly: "The gene symbol 'rpoC' is ambiguous or literature is limited for this specific protein"
- Explain what you found (e.g., "Found extensive literature on a different gene with the same symbol in a different organism")
- Describe the protein based ONLY on the UniProt information provided above
- Suggest that the protein function can be inferred from domain/family information
Please provide a comprehensive research report on the gene rpoC (gene ID: Q727C6, UniProt: Q727C6) in DESVH.
The research report should be a detailed narrative explaining the function, biological processes, and localization of the gene product. Citations should be given for all claims.
You should prioritize authoritative reviews and primary scientific literature when conducting research. You can supplement
this with annotations you find in gene/protein databases, but these can be outdated or inaccurate.
We are specifically interested in the primary function of the gene - for enzymes, what reaction is catalyzed, and what is the substrate specificity? For transporters, what is the substrate? For structural proteins or adapters, what is the broader structural role? For signaling molecules, what is the role in the pathway.
We are interested in where in or outside the cell the gene product carries out its function.
We are also interested in the signaling or biochemical pathways in which the gene functions. We are less interested in broad pleiotropic effects, except where these elucidate the precise role.
Include evidence where possible. We are interested in both experimental evidence as well as inference from structure, evolution, or bioinformatic analysis. Precise studies should be prioritized over high-throughput, where available.
Comprehensive research report: rpoC (DVU_2929; UniProt Q727C6) in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough
Plan and verification
- We verified that the target is RNAP beta’ subunit (RpoC) encoded by rpoC at locus DVU_2929 in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough (DvH). Multiple independent DvH studies explicitly map DVU_2929 to rpoC and detect the protein in proteomics, as well as in protein–protein interaction (PPI) pull-downs with other RNAP subunits (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0021470; https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.01655-16; https://doi.org/10.32469/10355/46854; https://doi.org/10.1021/pr300548d). These satisfy the mandatory identity checks and organism specificity (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41, fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267, walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13).
| Aspect | Evidence / Details | Source (DOI / URL, date) |
|---|---|---|
| Locus → gene mapping | DVU_2929 is annotated and experimentally reported as rpoC (RNA polymerase beta') with peptide-level detection in proteomics and annotation tables (proteomic abundance and significance reported) (fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41, chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7) | Fels SR (thesis) DOI: 10.32469/10355/46854 (2015); Gao et al., Appl Environ Microbiol DOI: 10.1128/aem.01655-16 (2016); Chhabra et al., PLoS ONE DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021470 (2011) |
| Organism / strain | Gene/locus mappings and experiments were performed in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough (DvH) (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267) | Chhabra et al., PLoS ONE DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021470 (2011); Fels SR (thesis) DOI: 10.32469/10355/46854 (2015) |
| Protein family / key domains (BH, TL, clamp/switch) | Beta' (RpoC) belongs to RNAP β' family; contains conserved bridge helix (BH), trigger loop (TL) and clamp/switch-region elements that mediate catalysis and DNA loading (fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12, pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12, qayyum2024structureandfunction pages 6-8) | Fouqueau et al., NAR DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt433 (2013); Pilotto et al., Nat Commun DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5 (2021); Qayyum et al., PNAS DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311480121 (2024) |
| Cellular localization | Core RNAP subunit — cytoplasmic / nucleoid-associated; detected by shotgun proteomics and also observed in membrane-enriched preparations likely via complex co-purification (walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41) | Walian et al., J Proteome Res DOI: 10.1021/pr300548d (2012); Gao et al., Appl Environ Microbiol DOI: 10.1128/aem.01655-16 (2016) |
| Molecular function (EC 2.7.7.6) & roles | DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity: synthesizes RNA from NTPs on a DNA template; essential roles in initiation, nucleotide-addition (elongation), and termination (pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12, fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12) | Pilotto et al., Nat Commun DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5 (2021); Fouqueau et al., NAR DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt433 (2013) |
| DvH experimental evidence | Strep-tagged RpoC co-purifies RNAP complex members (PPI pull-down); DVU2929 peptides quantified across proteomic datasets with reported abundances/significance (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41) | Chhabra et al., PLoS ONE DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021470 (2011); Fels SR (thesis) DOI: 10.32469/10355/46854 (2015); Gao et al., Appl Environ Microbiol DOI: 10.1128/aem.01655-16 (2016) |
| Recent 2023–2024 β' structural–functional insights | RNAP oligomerization/auto-inhibition (RNAP octamer) and σ sequestration; Si3 insertion into TL modulates proofreading/factor access (cyanobacteria); ssDNA-driven σ loading and clamp dynamics that gate RPo formation (pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12, qayyum2024structureandfunction pages 6-8, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4) | Morichaud et al., Nat Commun DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36113-y (2023); Qayyum et al., PNAS DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311480121 (2024); Vishwakarma et al., bioRxiv DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.21.608941 (2024) |
| Antibiotic mechanisms (switch / clamp region) | Switch/clamp inhibitors act by jamming clamp/switch motions: fidaxomicin/lipiarmycin blocks DNA loading (clamp-open inhibition); myxopyronin-type compounds prevent necessary clamp transitions (clamp-closed effects); structural complexes reported (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 27-28) | Ye et al., RSC Med Chem DOI: 10.1039/d3md00690e (2024); Vishwakarma et al., bioRxiv DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.21.608941 (2024); Maffioli et al., J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol DOI: 10.1007/s10295-018-2109-2 (2019) |
| Applications / relevance | RNAP β' is a validated antibacterial target (rifamycins historically) and a focus for next-generation inhibitors (fidaxomicin, pseudouridimycin); RNAP structures inform antibiotic design and IVT enzyme engineering (maffioli2019discoverypropertiesand pages 9-11, ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4) | Maffioli et al., J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol DOI: 10.1007/s10295-018-2109-2 (2019); Ye et al., RSC Med Chem DOI: 10.1039/d3md00690e (2024) |
| Structural-resolution / mechanistic visualization notes | Recent cryo-EM and FEL/crystallography deliver atomic/near-atomic RNAP structures (sub-3.5–4.5 Å ranges) enabling visualization of active-site metals, TL/BH conformations, and initiation intermediates (vishwakarma2025singlestrandeddnadrives pages 18-19, pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12, fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12) | Vishwakarma et al., bioRxiv DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.21.608941 (2024); Morichaud et al., Nat Commun DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36113-y (2023); Lin et al., PNAS DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318527121 (2024) |
| Operonic / interaction context in DvH | rpoB (DVU2928) and rpoC (DVU2929) are adjacent in RNAP operon contexts; proteomic PPI datasets place RpoC within conserved RNAP interaction networks in DvH (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267) | Chhabra et al., PLoS ONE DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021470 (2011); Fels SR (thesis) DOI: 10.32469/10355/46854 (2015) |
Table: Compact, sourced summary of identity verification and key facts for Q727C6 / DVU_2929 (rpoC) in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough, linking locus annotation, domain features, DvH experimental evidence, 2023–2024 structural insights, antibiotic mechanisms, and applications.
1) Key concepts and definitions with current understanding
- Gene/protein identity and role: rpoC encodes the beta’ subunit of the bacterial DNA-directed RNA polymerase (RNAP) core enzyme. RpoC forms a major portion of the crab-claw-shaped RNAP cleft and houses catalytically crucial motifs: the bridge helix (BH), trigger loop (TL), and clamp/switch-region elements that govern DNA loading, open-complex formation, nucleotide addition, and pausing/termination dynamics (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt433; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5). This subunit underlies EC 2.7.7.6 activity (DNA-dependent synthesis of RNA from NTPs) (fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12, pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- Domains/motifs: The BH spans the active-site cleft and coordinates translocation; the TL cycles between loop and helical states to position the NTP and accelerate chemistry; clamp/switch elements (including β’ switch-2) mediate closed-to-open transitions that admit DNA and stabilize the transcription bubble (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt433; https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12, ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
- Cellular location: As a core transcription enzyme subunit, RpoC functions in the cytoplasm/nucleoid. In DvH it has been detected in global proteomes and, due to co-complex carryover, in membrane-enriched fractions (URL: https://doi.org/10.1021/pr300548d) (walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13).
2) Recent developments and latest research (2023–2024 prioritized)
- σ loading and clamp dynamics at initiation: Single-molecule and cryo-EM work show that single-stranded -10 promoter DNA can drive σ loading onto RNAP, triggering clamp closure and “unswiveling” to unlock initiation-competent states. Structural logic explains why dsDNA requires clamp opening (dsDNA ~20 Å vs. ~10–12 Å gap between σR2–β-lobe when clamp is closed). RbpA can facilitate these transitions through β’ contacts. Mechanistically, fidaxomicin can lock the clamp open and block RPo formation, whereas myxopyronin-like inhibitors can lock it closed (preprint URL: https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.08.21.608941) (vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 27-28).
- Oligomerization/auto-inhibition: Mycobacterial σB can induce RNAP octamer formation that captures protomers in an auto-inhibited, open-clamp conformation; RbpA prevents octamer formation and promotes the initiation-competent conformation. This highlights allosteric control at the clamp/β’ interfaces (URL: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-36113-y) (pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- Trigger-loop insertions (Si3) and proofreading: In cyanobacteria, a large Si3 insertion integrated into the β’ TL/helix affects access of secondary-channel factors and reshapes proofreading pathways; TL refolding to TH ejects Si3 during catalysis, coupling catalysis to mobile insertions (URL: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2311480121) (qayyum2024structureandfunction pages 6-8).
- Consolidated 2024 pharmacology: A 2024 review catalogs inhibitors targeting core RNAP and PPIs, emphasizing switch/clamp inhibitors (fidaxomicin/lipiarmycin, myxopyronins, squaramides), and contrasts them with rifamycins that bind a β-pocket near the RNA/DNA hybrid (URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
3) Current applications and real-world implementations
- Antibiotics targeting RNAP: RpoC-containing regions form binding sites or allosteric conduits for clinically used fidaxomicin/lipiarmycin and development-stage switch-region inhibitors (myxopyronins). These act by jamming clamp/switch motions, blocking promoter DNA loading and initiation. Their structural distinctness from rifamycins helps in overcoming rifamycin resistance and expanding spectrum (URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
- Drug discovery insights: Structural studies show that factors and small molecules can widen or occlude the DNA-binding channel and distort BH/TL motifs, rationalizing allosteric inhibition and guiding design of next-generation RNAP inhibitors with β’ clamp/switch focus (URL: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5) (pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- Bioprocess/biotech relevance: Detailed active-site and metal coordination knowledge from high-resolution RNAP structures informs in vitro transcription enzyme engineering and mechanistic optimization, even though much of this work uses eukaryotic Pol II as a benchmark for catalytic geometry (URL: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2318527121) (vishwakarma2025singlestrandeddnadrives pages 18-19).
4) Expert opinions and analysis from authoritative sources
- Structural mechanism perspective: High-resolution cryo-EM/X-ray analyses across bacterial and archaeal/eukaryotic-like RNAPs place the β’ BH/TL and clamp/switch as conserved, dynamic modules whose conformational states determine initiation efficiency, elongation pace, pausing, and termination susceptibility; viral/host inhibitors exploit the same allosteric landscape (URL: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5) (pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- Pharmacology outlook (2024 review): RNAP PPIs and clamp/switch dynamics remain promising, albeit challenging, antibacterial targets. Structural insights have enabled mechanistically precise design and prioritization of new scaffolds beyond rifamycins (URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
- Mechanistic integration: Contemporary models of initiation emphasize “bind–unwind–load–and–lock” transitions gated by β’ clamp helices and switch-2, aligning with structural snapshots and antibiotic mechanisms (preprint URL: https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.08.21.608941) (vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 27-28).
5) Relevant statistics and data from recent studies
- Structural resolutions and mechanistic visualization: Recent RNAP structures span sub-3.5 Å to ~4.5 Å, enabling direct visualization of active-site ions and TL/BH conformations, as well as promoter-melting intermediates in time-resolved cryo-EM (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2318527121; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-36113-y) (vishwakarma2025singlestrandeddnadrives pages 18-19, pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- DvH organism-specific proteomics/PPI evidence: In DvH, Strep-tag RpoC (DVU_2929) pull-downs co-purified core RNAP components, placing RpoC in the transcription subnetwork; proteomics quantified DVU_2929 protein with statistically significant abundances (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0021470; https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.01655-16) (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41).
- Antibiotic mechanisms (qualitative/structural): Fidaxomicin/lipiarmycin binds a site spanning σ and β’ switch-2, blocking clamp motions and DNA loading; myxopyronin-class compounds target the switch region to bias clamp states, consistent with structural pharmacology and resistance-mapping (URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
Functional annotation for RpoC (Q727C6; DVU_2929) in DvH
- Primary function and substrate specificity: RpoC is the beta’ subunit of the bacterial multisubunit RNAP that catalyzes template-dependent RNA synthesis (EC 2.7.7.6). Substrates are NTPs; the enzyme uses DNA as template to form phosphodiester bonds, with catalysis accelerated by TL folding and BH dynamics (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt433; https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12, ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
- Localization of activity: Cytoplasmic/nucleoid region where RNAP engages chromosomal DNA; confirmed by proteomic detection and co-complex capture in DvH (URL: https://doi.org/10.1021/pr300548d) (walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13).
- Pathways and processes: RpoC participates in transcription initiation (promoter DNA loading, bubble formation, clamp locking), elongation (nucleotide addition cycle, pausing modulated by TL/BH and nascent RNA structures), and termination (conformational states affecting bubble collapse and RNA release). β’ clamp/switch transitions are central to initiation; TL/BH conformations regulate catalysis and pausing (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt433; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5) (fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12, pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- Organism-specific context: In DvH, rpoC is adjacent to rpoB (DVU_2928), consistent with RNAP operon organization. Pull-downs using RpoC bait co-purified RNAP subunits; DVU_2929 protein was quantified in DvH proteomes, supporting its expression and incorporation into RNAP (URLs: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0021470; https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.01655-16; https://doi.org/10.32469/10355/46854) (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41, fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267).
- Antibiotic and inhibitor interactions: The β’ clamp/switch region is a validated target. Fidaxomicin (lipiarmycin) blocks clamp motions and DNA loading during initiation; myxopyronin-class inhibitors bias clamp closure/opening. These mechanisms align with 2023–2024 structural and mechanistic studies, making β’ a continued focus for antibacterial development (URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e) (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
Ambiguity check and scope
- The symbol rpoC can denote RNAP β’ across bacteria; our organism- and locus-specific verification (DVU_2929, DvH) is unequivocally supported by DvH primary literature and proteomics (URLs above). No conflicting usage was found within the context of DvH (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41, fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267, walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13).
References (selected with URLs and dates; see inline citations for support)
- Chhabra SR et al., 2011, PLoS ONE. “Towards a Rigorous Network of Protein-Protein Interactions of DvH” https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0021470 (maps DVU_2929 to RpoC; PPI) (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7).
- Gao S-H et al., 2016, Appl Environ Microbiol. “Antimicrobial Effects of Free Nitrous Acid on DvH” https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.01655-16 (proteomic detection with quantitative values for DVU_2929) (gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41).
- Fels SR, 2015, PhD Thesis. “Genome-wide genetic assays in DvH” https://doi.org/10.32469/10355/46854 (DVU_2929→rpoC mapping; proteomics) (fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267).
- Walian PJ et al., 2012, J Proteome Res. “Outer membrane complexes of DvH” https://doi.org/10.1021/pr300548d (proteomics network includes DVU_2929) (walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13).
- Ye J et al., 2024, RSC Med Chem. “Inhibition of bacterial RNAP function and PPIs” https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e (mechanisms of fidaxomicin/myxopyronin; clamp/switch) (ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4).
- Morichaud Z et al., 2023, Nat Commun. “RNAP auto-inhibition via oligomerization” https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-36113-y (open-clamp, σ sequestration; RbpA effects) (pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12).
- Qayyum MZ et al., 2024, PNAS. “Si3 insertion in β’ TL/helix” https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2311480121 (proofreading/factor access) (qayyum2024structureandfunction pages 6-8).
- Vishwakarma RK et al., 2024, bioRxiv. “ssDNA drives σ loading” https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.08.21.608941 (clamp dynamics; antibiotic locking states) (vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 27-28).
- Fouqueau T et al., 2013, Nucleic Acids Res. “Trigger loop functions in all phases” https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt433 (TL/BH roles across cycle) (fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12).
- Lin G et al., 2024, PNAS. “Pol II active-site metals via FEL” https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2318527121 (active-site visualization principles relevant to RNAP catalysis) (vishwakarma2025singlestrandeddnadrives pages 18-19).
Conclusion
DVU_2929 encodes RpoC (RNAP β’) in DvH, supported by direct locus mapping, proteomic detection, and PPI evidence. RpoC provides essential catalytic and structural functions—via BH, TL, and clamp/switch elements—in initiation, elongation, and termination, operating at the nucleoid. Recent (2023–2024) structural work refines initiation models centered on β’ clamp dynamics and σ loading, illuminates organism-specific insertions that modulate proofreading, and underpins antibiotic mechanisms that lock clamp/switch states (fidaxomicin, myxopyronins). These insights reinforce β’ as a prime antibacterial target and a cornerstone for mechanistic and translational advances in transcription biology (chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7, gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41, ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4, pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12, qayyum2024structureandfunction pages 6-8, vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4).
References
(chhabra2011towardsarigorous pages 5-7): Swapnil R. Chhabra, Marcin P. Joachimiak, Christopher J. Petzold, Grant M. Zane, Morgan N. Price, Sonia A. Reveco, Veronica Fok, Alyssa R. Johanson, Tanveer S. Batth, Mary Singer, John-Marc Chandonia, Dominique Joyner, Terry C. Hazen, Adam P. Arkin, Judy D. Wall, Anup K. Singh, and Jay D. Keasling. Towards a rigorous network of protein-protein interactions of the model sulfate reducer desulfovibrio vulgaris hildenborough. PLoS ONE, 6:e21470, Jun 2011. URL: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0021470, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0021470. This article has 16 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(gao2016antimicrobialeffectsof pages 40-41): Shu-Hong Gao, Jun Yuan Ho, Lu Fan, David J. Richardson, Zhiguo Yuan, and Philip L. Bond. Antimicrobial effects of free nitrous acid on desulfovibrio vulgaris: implications for sulfide-induced corrosion of concrete. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 82:5563-5575, Sep 2016. URL: https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.01655-16, doi:10.1128/aem.01655-16. This article has 54 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(fels2015developmentofgenomewide pages 266-267): Samuel R. Fels. Development of genome-wide genetic assays in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough. PhD thesis, University of Missouri Libraries, 2015. URL: https://doi.org/10.32469/10355/46854, doi:10.32469/10355/46854.
(walian2012highthroughputisolationand pages 12-13): Peter J. Walian, Simon Allen, Maxim Shatsky, Lucy Zeng, Evelin D. Szakal, Haichuan Liu, Steven C. Hall, Susan J. Fisher, Bonita R. Lam, Mary E. Singer, Jil T. Geller, Steven E. Brenner, John-Marc Chandonia, Terry C. Hazen, H. Ewa Witkowska, Mark D. Biggin, and Bing K. Jap. High-throughput isolation and characterization of untagged membrane protein complexes: outer membrane complexes of desulfovibrio vulgaris. Journal of Proteome Research, 11:5720-5735, Oct 2012. URL: https://doi.org/10.1021/pr300548d, doi:10.1021/pr300548d. This article has 33 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(fouqueau2013thernapolymerase pages 12-12): Thomas Fouqueau, Mirijam Elisabeth Zeller, Alan C. Cheung, Patrick Cramer, and Michael Thomm. The rna polymerase trigger loop functions in all three phases of the transcription cycle. Nucleic Acids Research, 41:7048-7059, May 2013. URL: https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt433, doi:10.1093/nar/gkt433. This article has 53 citations and is from a highest quality peer-reviewed journal.
(pilotto2021structuralbasisof pages 10-12): Simona Pilotto, Thomas Fouqueau, Natalya Lukoyanova, Carol Sheppard, Soizick Lucas-Staat, Luis Miguel Díaz-Santín, Dorota Matelska, David Prangishvili, Alan C. M. Cheung, and Finn Werner. Structural basis of rna polymerase inhibition by viral and host factors. Nature Communications, Sep 2021. URL: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5, doi:10.1038/s41467-021-25666-5. This article has 15 citations and is from a highest quality peer-reviewed journal.
(qayyum2024structureandfunction pages 6-8): M. Zuhaib Qayyum, Masahiko Imashimizu, Miron Leanca, Rishi K. Vishwakarma, Amber Riaz-Bradley, Yulia Yuzenkova, and Katsuhiko S. Murakami. Structure and function of the si3 insertion integrated into the trigger loop/helix of cyanobacterial rna polymerase. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, Feb 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2311480121, doi:10.1073/pnas.2311480121. This article has 11 citations and is from a highest quality peer-reviewed journal.
(vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 1-4): Rishi Kishore Vishwakarma, Nils Marechal, Zakia Morichaud, Mickaël Blaise, Emmanuel Margeat, and Konstantin Brodolin. Single-stranded dna drives σ subunit loading onto rna polymerase to unlock initiation-competent conformations. bioRxiv, Aug 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.08.21.608941, doi:10.1101/2024.08.21.608941. This article has 1 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.
(ye2024inhibitionofbacterial pages 2-4): Jiqing Ye, Cheuk Hei Kan, Xiao Yang, and Cong Ma. Inhibition of bacterial rna polymerase function and protein-protein interactions: a promising approach for next-generation antibacterial therapeutics. RSC medicinal chemistry, 15 5:1471-1487, May 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d3md00690e, doi:10.1039/d3md00690e. This article has 8 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(vishwakarma2024singlestrandeddnadrives pages 27-28): Rishi Kishore Vishwakarma, Nils Marechal, Zakia Morichaud, Mickaël Blaise, Emmanuel Margeat, and Konstantin Brodolin. Single-stranded dna drives σ subunit loading onto rna polymerase to unlock initiation-competent conformations. bioRxiv, Aug 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.08.21.608941, doi:10.1101/2024.08.21.608941. This article has 1 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.
(maffioli2019discoverypropertiesand pages 9-11): Sonia I Maffioli, Margherita Sosio, Richard H Ebright, and Stefano Donadio. Discovery, properties, and biosynthesis of pseudouridimycin, an antibacterial nucleoside-analog inhibitor of bacterial rna polymerase. Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology, 46:335-343, Mar 2019. URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10295-018-2109-2, doi:10.1007/s10295-018-2109-2. This article has 42 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(vishwakarma2025singlestrandeddnadrives pages 18-19): Rishi Kishore Vishwakarma, Nils Marechal, Zakia Morichaud, Mickaël Blaise, Emmanuel Margeat, and Konstantin Brodolin. Single-stranded dna drives σ subunit loading onto mycobacterial rna polymerase to unlock initiation-competent conformations. Nucleic Acids Research, Apr 2025. URL: https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkaf272, doi:10.1093/nar/gkaf272. This article has 0 citations and is from a highest quality peer-reviewed journal.
id: Q727C6
gene_symbol: rpoC
product_type: PROTEIN
status: COMPLETE
taxon:
id: NCBITaxon:882
label: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain Hildenborough)
description: >-
RpoC is the beta' subunit of bacterial DNA-directed RNA polymerase (RNAP) in
Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough (formerly Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
This essential enzyme subunit forms the catalytic core of the RNAP holoenzyme
(alpha2-beta-beta'-omega) and contains the active site for phosphodiester bond
formation during transcription. The beta' subunit houses the bridge helix (BH),
trigger loop (TL), and clamp/switch regions that govern DNA loading, open-complex
formation, nucleotide addition, and pausing/termination dynamics. RpoC binds
1 Mg2+ ion at the active site (essential for catalysis) and 2 Zn2+ ions that
play structural roles. In D. vulgaris, RpoC (DVU_2929) has been experimentally
validated through proteomics and protein-protein interaction studies showing
its association with other RNAP subunits including RpoB.
existing_annotations:
- term:
id: GO:0000287
label: magnesium ion binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000104
review:
summary: >-
The beta' subunit of RNAP contains the catalytic active site with conserved
aspartate residues (D466, D468, D470 in Q727C6) that coordinate Mg2+ ions
essential for phosphodiester bond formation during transcription. This is
a well-established core function of the RpoC subunit based on UniProt
annotation and extensive structural studies of bacterial RNAP
(file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
Magnesium binding is essential for RNAP catalytic activity. The UniProt entry
clearly documents Mg2+ binding at residues 466, 468, and 470 based on HAMAP
rule MF_01322. The deep research confirms the active-site metals via FEL
and structural work (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
supported_by:
- reference_id: UniProt:Q727C6
supporting_text: "Binds 1 Mg(2+) ion per subunit"
- term:
id: GO:0000428
label: DNA-directed RNA polymerase complex
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
review:
summary: >-
RpoC is a core component of the bacterial RNAP complex (alpha2-beta-beta'-omega).
DvH proteomics and PPI studies confirm that DVU_2929 (RpoC) co-purifies with
other RNAP subunits including RpoB (PMID:26873250, PMID:27099342).
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
The beta' subunit is an integral component of the bacterial RNAP core enzyme.
UniProt records experimental interaction evidence (IntAct) showing RpoC interacts
with RpoB (Q727C7) with 4 experiments documented. This cellular component
annotation accurately captures where RpoC functions.
supported_by:
- reference_id: UniProt:Q727C6
supporting_text: "The RNAP catalytic core consists of 2 alpha, 1 beta, 1 beta' and 1 omega subunit"
- reference_id: file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
supporting_text: "DVU_2929 encodes RpoC (RNAP beta') in DvH, supported by direct locus mapping, proteomic detection, and PPI evidence"
- term:
id: GO:0003677
label: DNA binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
review:
summary: >-
RpoC contributes to DNA binding as part of the RNAP complex. The beta' subunit
contains the clamp domain that contacts template DNA and helps maintain the
transcription bubble. However, the beta' subunit alone is not the primary
DNA-binding component - sigma factors provide promoter specificity.
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
While the beta' subunit does contact DNA as part of the RNAP complex (through
clamp/switch regions that help hold the DNA template), this annotation is
appropriate at a general level. The domain-based inference (InterPro domains
IPR000722, IPR006592, etc.) correctly identifies this function. The clamp
dynamics of beta' are essential for DNA loading and bubble maintenance
(file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
supported_by:
- reference_id: file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
supporting_text: "Recent (2023-2024) structural work refines initiation models centered on beta' clamp dynamics and sigma loading"
- term:
id: GO:0003899
label: DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
review:
summary: >-
This is the primary molecular function of the RNAP complex, and RpoC contains
the catalytic site (EC 2.7.7.6). The beta' subunit houses the bridge helix
and trigger loop motifs essential for the nucleotide addition cycle.
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
This annotation captures the core enzymatic function. While the complete RNAP
complex is required for activity, the beta' subunit provides the active site
residues for phosphodiester bond formation. The UniProt entry assigns EC 2.7.7.6
to this protein based on HAMAP annotation, and the deep research confirms the
trigger loop functions in all three phases of the transcription cycle
(file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
supported_by:
- reference_id: UniProt:Q727C6
supporting_text: "DNA-dependent RNA polymerase catalyzes the transcription of DNA into RNA using the four ribonucleoside triphosphates as substrates"
- reference_id: file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
supporting_text: "RpoC provides essential catalytic and structural functions - via BH, TL, and clamp/switch elements - in initiation, elongation, and termination"
- term:
id: GO:0006351
label: DNA-templated transcription
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
review:
summary: >-
RpoC participates in all phases of transcription: initiation (promoter DNA
loading, bubble formation via clamp dynamics), elongation (nucleotide addition
cycle via trigger loop/bridge helix), and termination.
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
This biological process annotation correctly captures the role of RpoC in
transcription. The beta' subunit is essential for this process, and DVU_2929
has been quantified in DvH proteomes supporting its expression and function
in the cell (file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md).
supported_by:
- reference_id: file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
supporting_text: "Trigger loop functions in all three phases of the transcription cycle"
- term:
id: GO:0008270
label: zinc ion binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000104
review:
summary: >-
The beta' subunit contains two zinc-binding sites with conserved cysteine
residues. In Q727C6, Zn2+ site 1 uses C75, C77, C90, C93, and Zn2+ site 2
uses residues at positions 809, 883, 890, 893. These zinc ions play
structural roles in maintaining protein fold.
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
Zinc binding is well documented for the RpoC subunit. The UniProt entry
annotates 8 zinc-binding residues forming two distinct sites based on HAMAP
rule MF_01322. This structural metal binding is conserved across bacterial
RNAP beta' subunits.
supported_by:
- reference_id: UniProt:Q727C6
supporting_text: "Binds 2 Zn(2+) ions per subunit"
- term:
id: GO:0016740
label: transferase activity
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
review:
summary: >-
This is a parent term of the more specific nucleotidyltransferase activity
and DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity. While correct, it is too general.
action: MARK_AS_OVER_ANNOTATED
reason: >-
This term is subsumed by the more specific GO:0003899 (DNA-directed RNA
polymerase activity) and GO:0016779 (nucleotidyltransferase activity)
annotations already present. Retaining this adds no additional information
and represents redundant annotation at a less informative level.
- term:
id: GO:0016779
label: nucleotidyltransferase activity
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
review:
summary: >-
This is a parent term of DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity. The annotation
is correct but less specific than GO:0003899.
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
While GO:0003899 is more specific, this intermediate-level term from the
UniProt keyword mapping is technically correct. The RNAP does transfer
nucleotidyl groups (from NTPs to the growing RNA chain). This annotation
is acceptable as a broader classification.
- term:
id: GO:0034062
label: 5'-3' RNA polymerase activity
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000116
review:
summary: >-
This annotation from Rhea mapping correctly captures the directionality of
RNA synthesis. RNAP synthesizes RNA in the 5' to 3' direction, adding
nucleotides to the 3'-OH of the growing chain.
action: ACCEPT
reason: >-
This annotation based on the Rhea reaction mapping (RHEA:21248) is accurate
and provides useful mechanistic information about the directionality of
transcription. The reaction catalyzed is: RNA(n) + ribonucleoside 5'-triphosphate
= RNA(n+1) + diphosphate.
supported_by:
- reference_id: UniProt:Q727C6
supporting_text: "Reaction=RNA(n) + a ribonucleoside 5'-triphosphate = RNA(n+1) + diphosphate"
- term:
id: GO:0046872
label: metal ion binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
review:
summary: >-
General metal ion binding term that encompasses both Mg2+ and Zn2+ binding
by RpoC. This is a parent term of the more specific metal binding annotations.
action: MARK_AS_OVER_ANNOTATED
reason: >-
This annotation is technically correct but is subsumed by the more specific
GO:0000287 (magnesium ion binding) and GO:0008270 (zinc ion binding)
annotations. The general term adds no additional information.
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:26873250
review:
summary: >-
This IPI annotation is based on AP-MS protein-protein interaction data from
a systematic D. vulgaris interactome study. RpoC was shown to interact with
RpoB (Q727C7), which is biologically expected as these are adjacent subunits
in the RNAP complex (PMID:26873250).
action: MODIFY
reason: >-
While the protein binding annotation captures a true interaction, "protein binding"
(GO:0005515) is uninformative. The specific interaction is with RpoB within
the RNAP complex. A more informative annotation would be to GO:0000428
(DNA-directed RNA polymerase complex) as a cellular component annotation,
which already exists. The molecular function annotation should reflect the
specific binding context.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0140753
label: RNAP core enzyme binding
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:26873250
supporting_text: "We have identified 459 high confidence PPIs from D. vulgaris"
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:27099342
review:
summary: >-
This IPI annotation is from a quantitative tagless copurification study
confirming RpoC-RpoB interaction through orthogonal chromatography steps.
The interaction with Q727C7 (RpoB) was validated by copurification
(PMID:27099342).
action: MODIFY
reason: >-
Same rationale as the previous protein binding annotation. The evidence
supports physical interaction between RpoC and RpoB within the RNAP complex,
but "protein binding" is too general. The tagless copurification method
provides independent validation of the RNAP subunit interactions.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0140753
label: RNAP core enzyme binding
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:27099342
supporting_text: "Protein partners from our D. vulgaris and E. coli AP-MS interactomes copurify as frequently as pairs belonging to three benchmark data sets of well-characterized PPIs"
references:
- id: GO_REF:0000043
title: Gene Ontology annotation based on UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot keyword mapping
findings:
- statement: Provides transferase activity, nucleotidyltransferase activity, metal ion binding annotations via keyword mapping
- id: GO_REF:0000104
title: Electronic Gene Ontology annotations created by transferring manual GO annotations between related proteins based on shared sequence features
findings:
- statement: Provides magnesium and zinc ion binding annotations based on UniRule transfer
- id: GO_REF:0000116
title: Automatic Gene Ontology annotation based on Rhea mapping
findings:
- statement: Maps reaction RHEA:21248 to 5'-3' RNA polymerase activity
- id: GO_REF:0000120
title: Combined Automated Annotation using Multiple IEA Methods
findings:
- statement: Integrates InterPro domain analysis and UniRule annotations for DNA binding, RNAP activity, and transcription
- id: PMID:26873250
title: "Bacterial Interactomes: Interacting Protein Partners Share Similar Function and Are Validated in Independent Assays More Frequently Than Previously Reported."
findings:
- statement: High-confidence AP-MS survey identifies 459 PPIs in D. vulgaris
supporting_text: "We have identified 459 high confidence PPIs from D. vulgaris"
- statement: Documents RpoC-RpoB interaction via AP-MS
supporting_text: "Compared with the nine published interactomes, our two networks are smaller, are much less highly connected, and have significantly lower false discovery rates"
- id: PMID:27099342
title: "Quantitative Tagless Copurification: A Method to Validate and Identify Protein-Protein Interactions."
findings:
- statement: Validates D. vulgaris protein interactions through orthogonal chromatography
supporting_text: "5273 fractions from a four-step fractionation of a D. vulgaris protein extract were assayed, resulting in the detection of 1242 proteins"
- statement: RpoC-RpoB copurification confirmed through tagless copurification
supporting_text: "Protein partners from our D. vulgaris and E. coli AP-MS interactomes copurify as frequently as pairs belonging to three benchmark data sets of well-characterized PPIs"
- id: file:DESVH/Q727C6/Q727C6-deep-research-falcon.md
title: Deep research summary for rpoC (Q727C6) in D. vulgaris
findings:
- statement: DVU_2929 maps to rpoC with peptide-level proteomic detection
supporting_text: "DVU_2929 encodes RpoC (RNAP beta') in DvH, supported by direct locus mapping, proteomic detection, and PPI evidence"
- statement: Documents essential role of trigger loop in initiation, elongation, and termination
supporting_text: "Trigger loop functions in all three phases of the transcription cycle"
- statement: Describes clamp/switch dynamics essential for DNA loading
supporting_text: "Recent (2023-2024) structural work refines initiation models centered on beta' clamp dynamics and sigma loading"
core_functions:
- description: >-
DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity - RpoC contains the catalytic active
site for phosphodiester bond formation during transcription (EC 2.7.7.6).
The trigger loop and bridge helix motifs in the beta' subunit are essential
for the nucleotide addition cycle.
molecular_function:
id: GO:0003899
label: DNA-directed RNA polymerase activity
directly_involved_in:
- id: GO:0006351
label: DNA-templated transcription
in_complex:
id: GO:0000428
label: DNA-directed RNA polymerase complex
- description: >-
Metal cofactor binding for catalysis and structure. Binds 1 Mg2+ ion at
the active site (catalytic, coordinates incoming NTP) and 2 Zn2+ ions
(structural roles in maintaining protein fold).
molecular_function:
id: GO:0000287
label: magnesium ion binding
suggested_questions:
- question: >-
Are there organism-specific features of the N. vulgaris RpoC that differ
from E. coli or other model bacteria, particularly in regions targeted by
antibiotics?
- question: >-
Does N. vulgaris RpoC have any trigger loop insertions (like Si3 in
cyanobacteria) that might affect its regulatory properties?
suggested_experiments:
- description: >-
Structural characterization of purified N. vulgaris RNAP by cryo-EM to
determine if there are species-specific structural features. Most RNAP
structural knowledge comes from E. coli, Thermus, and mycobacteria.
Deltaproteobacteria like N. vulgaris may have unique features.
- description: >-
Test susceptibility of N. vulgaris to fidaxomicin and myxopyronin-class
RNAP inhibitors that target the clamp/switch region. These antibiotics
target conserved beta'/sigma interfaces but species-specific sensitivities exist.