mRNA decapping factors and the exonuclease Xrn2 function in widespread premature termination of RNA polymerase II transcription.

We report a function of human mRNA decapping factors in control of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Decapping proteins Edc3, Dcp1a, and Dcp2 and the termination factor TTF2 coimmunoprecipitate with Xrn2, the nuclear 5'-3' exonuclease "torpedo" that facilitates transcription termination at the 3' ends of genes. Dcp1a, Xrn2, and TTF2 localize near transcription start sites (TSSs) by ChIP-seq.

An in-solution ultrasonication-assisted digestion method for improved extracellular matrix proteome coverage.

Epithelial cell behavior is coordinated by the composition of the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM); thus ECM protein identification is critical for understanding normal biology and disease states. Proteomic analyses of ECM proteins have been hindered by the insoluble and digestion-resistant nature of ECM. Here we explore the utility of combining rapid ultrasonication- and surfactant-assisted digestion for the detailed proteomics analysis of ECM samples.

Rapid phosphorus triester hydrolysis catalyzed by bimetallic tetrabenzimidazole complexes.

Bimetallic complexes based on the binucleating ligand N,N,N',N'-tetrakis[(2-benzimidazolyl)methyl]-2-hydroxy-1,3-diaminopropane (1L) and its new toluoyl ester derivative (2L) catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphorus triesters at ambient temperature with activities rivalling the fastest known systems.