RNA Polymerase, T7 RNA Polymerase, T7 Bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase is a DNA-dependent RNA polymerase encoded in the T7 bacteriophage genome. The enzyme consists of a single polypeptide chain with M.W. 98800 daltons. It is highly specific for the T7 promoter which consists of a specific 23 bp sequence.
Transcription is both very rapid and processive.
Da has an optimal activity in the pH range of 7.7 - 8.3. Applications Bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase is used in the synthesis of single strand RNAs. When these RNAs are radiolabeled they can be used to detect homologous DNA by hybridization techniques. Alternatively, the RNA transcripts can be translated in vitro to generate radiolabeled protein in the presence of labeled amino acids. The assay used by Worthington is a modification of the method described by Davanloo , P. et al ., 1984.