DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit RPB2 (POLR2B)

DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit RPB2 (POLR2B) is the **second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II**, a multiprotein enzyme complex that catalyzes the transcription of DNA into precursors of messenger RNA (mRNA), small nuclear RNA (snRNA), and microRNA in eukaryotic cells[1][2][3][5]. POLR2B associates with other core subunits to form the active site of the polymerase, participating in the catalysis of RNA synthesis by appending nucleotides and supporting transcription fidelity, including 3'-5' exonuclease proofreading activity[2][5]. Proper POLR2B function is required for all gene expression, making it fundamental to cell viability, and alterations or dysregulation of its activity are implicated in various diseases with transcriptional disturbances, such as cancer and viral infections[2][5]. Because it is vital for general gene transcription, POLR2B is not considered a typical small-molecule drug target, and attempts to therapeutically inhibit its function would have profound toxicity.

Other names

DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit BRNA polymerase II subunit BRPB2RNA polymerase II subunit 2RNA polymerase II subunit B2RNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit RPB23'-5' exoribonucleaseDNA-directed RNA polymerase II 140 kDa polypeptide