DNA-directed RNA Polymerase (Bacterial) (RNAP)

DNA-directed RNA polymerase (RNAP) in bacteria is a multisubunit enzyme responsible for transcribing DNA into RNA, using ribonucleoside triphosphates as substrates. It is the central enzyme of gene expression in prokaryotes and is essential for synthesizing all types of cellular RNAs, including mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA. The core enzyme consists of five subunits: two alpha (α), one beta (β), one beta prime (β′), and one omega (ω). The core enzyme associates with a sigma factor (σ) to form the holoenzyme complex (α₂ββ′ωσ) for promoter recognition and initiation. It is a validated target for antibiotics; drugs like rifampicin inhibit its function.

Other names

Bacterial RNA polymeraseDNA-dependent RNA polymeraseProkaryotic RNA polymerase

Inhibition of RNA polymerase by binding to the β-subunit and blocking transcription initiation.