The C-terminal priming domain is strongly associated with the main body of bacteriophage ϕ6 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase

► RNA-dependent RNA polymerases require a priming domain for de novo initiation. ► A nick was introduced into a hinge region connecting the priming domain. ► This altered thermostability of initiation complex and increased abortive initiation. ► The hinge facilitates priming domain movement and controls transition to elongation.