DNA-directed RNA polymerase subunit beta prime (β′)

DNA-directed RNA polymerase subunit beta prime (β′) is a core component of RNA polymerases found in all domains of life. It is essential for gene expression by synthesizing RNA using ribonucleoside triphosphates. The β′ subunit forms part of the active center responsible for catalyzing ribonucleotide polymerization and binds to template DNA. In bacteria, the core enzyme (α₂ββ'ω) requires sigma factors for promoter recognition. Several antibacterial drugs target β′ to inhibit bacterial RNAP activity.

Other names

RNAP subunit beta primeRNAP β'tabBtranscriptase subunit beta primetranscriptase β'

Inhibition of bacterial RNAP activity by binding regions involving β′, blocking formation of open complexes required for transcription start.