TATA Binding Protein (TBP)

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TATA-binding protein (TBP) acts as a general transcription factor that forms strong bonds with a specific DNA sequence called the TATA box located within the minor groove. This crucial sequence is situated approximately 30 base pairs upstream from the transcription start site in certain gene promoters, where it plays a pivotal role in initiating gene expression. Alongside other essential factors, TBP facilitates the recruitment of all three eukaryotic RNA polymerases, thereby regulating gene transcription. This model vividly depicts TBP in white, with key residues highlighted in light pink, yellow, and magenta. The DNA double helix is rendered in light blue, with the TATA box prominently displayed in dark blue. As TBP binds to the TATA box, it significantly alters the DNA structure by inserting amino acid side chains between adjacent base pairs and creating kinks in the sequence. This profound distortion ultimately enables other critical factors to access the DNA. The mechanism behind this process is clearly illustrated in annotations 1 and 2, which provide a detailed explanation of how TBP interacts with the TATA box. Additional annotations delve into the intricacies of hydrogen bonding interactions and TATA recognition mechanisms, further elucidating the complex processes involved in gene transcription.