Yeast RNA polymerase III transcription factors and effectors

Recent data indicate that the well-defined transcription machinery of RNA polymerase III (Pol III) is probably more complex than commonly thought. In this review, we describe the yeast basal transcription factors of Pol III and their involvements in the transcription cycle. We also present a list of proteins detected on genes transcribed by Pol III (class III genes) that might participate in the transcription process. Surprisingly, several of these proteins are involved in RNA polymerase II transcription. Defining the role of these potential new effectors in Pol III transcription in vivo will be the challenge of the next few years. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Transcription by Odd Pols.

► RNA polymerase III (Pol III) transcription in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is reviewed.
► We describe the discovery of the basal Pol III transcription machinery.
► We report recent advances in the knowledge of Pol III regulation.
► Components that may play a role in Pol III transcription in vivo are described.