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RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcribes genes that encode proteins and noncoding small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). The carboxyl-terminal repeat domain (CTD) of the largest subunit of mammalian RNA Pol II, comprising tandem repeats of the heptapeptide consensus Tyr 1 -Ser 2 -Pro 3 -Thr 4 -Ser 5 -Pro 6 -Ser 7 , is required for expression of both gene types. We show that mutation of serine-7 to alanine causes a specific defect in snRNA gene expression. We also present evidence that phosphorylation of serine-7 facilitates interaction with the snRNA gene–specific Integrator complex. These findings assign a biological function to this amino acid and highlight a gene type–specific requirement for a residue within the CTD heptapeptide, supporting the existence of a CTD code.

IN A WORLD at war one gets the impression that all forces are solely for destruction. When war ends, the new technology will more quickly, efficiently, and effectively convert the war effort to the pursuits of peace with an amazing speed. With the tremendous increase in research and development, the commercialization of processes has occurred which would have taken years under normal conditions to reach fruition. Out of t h e welter of the war effort, values will now that will increase man's effective span of life with greater satisfaction for living. Science has already prolonged and saved man's life through germ-killing chemicals, new anesthetics, and synthetic vitamins. Through scientific and technical research our food supply has increased in quantity and quality. Synthetic textiles have provided more beautiful, durable, and sanitary clothing. Plastics will revolutionize the building arts, for the trend is to supplant many house-building and housefurnishing materials with plastics as soon as they ...