Dr. Stephen Buratowski

Biography

Stephen Buratowski is a prominent figure in the field of biological chemistry and molecular pharmacology. His lab specializes in the study of eukaryotic gene expression, particularly focusing on the interactions of RNA polymerase II with basal transcription factors, the communication between chromatin and transcription machinery, and the roles of mRNA processing enzymes. Utilizing the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism, his research combines biochemical and genetic techniques to address fundamental questions in transcription initiation and regulation. Significant projects include investigating the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II and its relationship with mRNA processing enzymes, where he discovered that phosphorylated CTD serves as a binding site for these enzymes. This research revealed how CTD phosphorylation patterns change during transcription initiation and elongation. Additionally, Buratowski's work delves into the mechanisms that underlie transcription elongation and termination, particularly focusing on the distinct pathways utilized by polyadenylated and non-polyadenylated RNAs. His contributions extend to understanding how transcription influences chromatin structure, with implications for gene regulation and potential links to human cancers.

Research Interests