Centre for Research in Biomolecular Interactions presents Prof. Emanuel Rosonina, Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, York University

Talk Title: "Regulating Protein Complexes Assembled on Active Promoters"

Abstract:

Many decades of research have led to a highly detailed understanding of how protein-coding genes are activated in eukaryotic cells. In this process, a complex of transcription factors binds step-wise to gene promoters, enabling the recruitment of RNA Polymerase II (RNAP II), which then initiates transcription. Surprisingly, however, very little is known about the fate of promoter-bound transcription factors after the initially-recruited RNAP II molecule engages in transcription. Does the transcription factor complex remain intact on promoters where it can facilitate recruitment of subsequent molecules of RNAP II? How are promoter-bound transcription factors cleared when genes must be shut off and returned to an inactive state? In this presentation, I will present data that indicate that yeast cells use SUMO post-translational modifications to regulate protein complexes associated with promoters of activated genes. Sumoylation allows genes to be efficiently shut off when appropriate, and controls how long a transcription factor, Gcn4, remains associated with its target promoters. I will also discuss plans to build on these findings towards gaining a better understanding of post-initiation promoter regulation.

About the Speaker:

Emanuel Rosonina obtained his BSc in chemistry and biology from York University before starting his graduate work in the lab of David Bentley in the Department of Medical Biophysics, at the University of Toronto. Two years thereafter, the Bentley lab closed unexpectedly and Emanuel transferred to the Blencowe lab (Department of Medical Genetics, University of Toronto) where he completed his PhD on regulation of transcription and pre-mRNA processing. After graduating, he spent one year working in the telomerase field while learning yeast genetics in Lea Harrington’s lab at the Ontario Cancer Institute. Emanuel then combined his interest in gene expression with yeast genetics as a postdoc in the lab of Jim Manley at Columbia University in New York, where his interest in sumoylation as a mechanism of regulating gene expression emerged. In August of 2013 Emanuel joined the Department of Biology at York University as an assistant professor. His lab focus is transcriptional re-initiation and regulation of transcription by SUMO post-translational modifications.

Please join us,

Refreshments will be served.