SPT5 — Schizosaccharomyces pombe 972h-

Summary

SPT5 (SPAC23C4.19) on chromosome 1 of Schizosaccharomyces pombe encodes a protein containing multiple KOW domains, an NGN domain, and a Spt5_N domain. The protein binds RNA polymerase I and II cores, histones, snRNPs, and single-stranded RNA, and acts as a chromatin adaptor. SPT5 is associated with regulation of transcription elongation by RNA polymerases I and II, mRNA capping and processing, spliceosomal complex assembly, rRNA processing, chromatin silencing, intracellular mRNA localization, and positive regulation of autophagy. It localizes to the nucleus and rDNA heterochromatin. Phenotypic associations link SPT5 to decreased lifespan, abnormal chronological lifespan, increased transposable element transposition, altered cell cycle progression (including G1/S arrest and delayed metaphase), decreased ribophagy, increased pexophagy, and loss of hyperosmotic stress resistance. Studies of related genes in other species further connect SPT5 to the DSIF complex.