Kinetic characterization of RNA synthesis catalyzed by the model hyperthermophilic archaeon <i>Thermococcus kodakarensis</i> RNA polymerase

Accurate and timely regulation of gene expression is critical for survival under dynamic conditions in all living organisms. Control of transcription initiation and elongation rates is a key parameter for cellular fitness, and determination of the conserved and unique regulatory strategies that control RNA polymerase activities is of paramount importance. How RNA synthesis is catalyzed by archaeal RNA polymerases provides insight into unique and conserved regulatory strategies for survival at the limits of life.