The effects of metal ions on nucleic acids structure and function have been determined. The primary focus now is on the mechanism of RNA synthesis at the active site of RNA polymerase. The geometry of interaction at the active site of the enzyme is being probed during the transcription process to determine how this geometry changes during transcription and affects its mechanism. Evidence has been obtained that the enzyme assures fidelity in copying the genetic code by conformation changes sensitive to complementarity or non-complementarity between DNA base and the base on the increasing nucleoside triphosphate.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01AG000044-18
Application #
3802187
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
18
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Aging
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code