WHR1

DNA-binding protein which is required for efficient transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER). Acts as part of a TC-NER complex which assembles and interacts with RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) when it stalls at DNA lesions. TC-NER complex subunit UVSSA binds to the GTF2H1/p62 subunit of the TFIIH transcription factor complex, tethering TFIIH to the TC-NER complex. WHR1/STK19 then interacts with the XPD helicase subunit of TFIIH which guides TFIIH to DNA downstream of the stalled RNAPII, ensuring DNA repair. Directly interacts with RNAPII and also binds to downstream DNA. Promotes the timely removal of DNA damage-stalled RNAPII, allowing downstream NER factors to access DNA lesions. Required for monoubiquitination of UVSSA. Regulates repositioning and stabilization of UVSSA within the TC-NER complex. Stimulates ubiquitination of RNAPII complex member RBP1. Also binds to RNA and regulates the expression levels of many mRNAs..

Function from UniProtKB (P49842), read 2026-09-23. CC BY 4.0.