DNA polymerase; RNA polymerase (null)

DNA polymerase is an enzyme family responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during DNA replication, ensuring the faithful duplication of the genome before cell division. DNA polymerases add deoxyribonucleotides to a growing DNA chain, using a template strand and a primer, and possess proofreading activity to correct errors[2][5]. RNA polymerase is a multi-subunit enzyme complex that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template in the process of transcription, a key step in gene expression. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase does not require a primer and produces RNA (not DNA), using ribonucleotides and unwinding DNA transiently as it copies the genetic code[2][3][4][7][8][9]. In eukaryotes, three main forms exist (Pol I, Pol II, Pol III) with distinct gene targets[4][7]. Note: The combined term "DNA polymerase and RNA polymerase" is not considered a canonical target and should be split into two separate targets for accurate mapping and structured information[2][5][7]. Each has distinct drug interactions, clinical utilities, and molecular characteristics.

Other names

DNA polymerasedeoxyribonucleic acid polymeraseRNA polymeraseribonucleic acid polymeraseDNAPRNAP

DNA polymerase inhibitors typically act as chain terminators (nucleoside analogues) or via active site inhibition. RNA polymerase inhibitors may block initiation, elongation, or directly bind the enzyme to halt transcription.