The RNA polymerase 2 C-terminal domain-interacting domain of yeast Nrd1 contributes to the choice of termination pathway and couples to RNA processing by the nuclear exosome

Background: Distinct termination pathways for yeast RNA polymerase II (RNApII) employ proteins (Nrd1 and Rtt103) recognizing different phospho-forms of the RNApII C-terminal domain (CTD). Results: Alteration of CTD-binding specificity of Nrd1 significantly affects RNApII termination. Conclusion: Differential interaction between RNApII CTD and termination factors is crucial in choosing a termination pathway. Significance: CTD-interacting domain of Nrd1 couples termination and RNA processing by the nuclear exosome.