Fine-tuning DNA replication and transcription is crucial to prevent collisions between their machineries1. This is particularly important near promoters, where RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) initiates transcription and frequently arrests, forming R-loops2-4. Arrested RNAPII can obstruct DNA replication, which often initiates near promoters5,6. The mechanisms that rescue arrested RNAPII during elongation to avoid conflicts with co-directional replisomes remain unclear. Here, using genome-wide approaches and genetic screens, we identify CFAP20 as part of a protective pathway that salvages arrested RNAPII in promoter-proximal regions, diverting it from the path of co-directional replisomes. CFAP20-deficient cells accumulate R-loops near promoters, which leads to defects in replication timing and dynamics. These defects stem from accelerated replication-fork speeds that cause a secondary reduction in origin activity. Co-depletion of the Mediator complex or removal of R-loop-engaged RNAPII restores normal replication. Our findings suggest that transcription-dependent fork stalling in cis induces accelerated fork progression in trans, generating single-stranded DNA gaps. We propose that CFAP20 facilitates RNAPII elongation under high levels of Mediator-driven transcription, thereby preventing replisome collisions. This study provides a transcription-centred view of transcription-replication encounters, revealing how locally arrested transcription complexes propagate genome-wide replication phenotypes and defining CFAP20 as a key factor that safeguards genome stability.
FörderungenSwiss National Science Foundation ERC Netherlands Scientific Organization ADORE Foundation Netherlands Scientific Organization (NWO Vidi) Dutch Cancer Foundation Oncode Institute Canadian Institutes of Health Research National Human Genome Research Institute National Cancer Institute Netherlands Scientific Organization Vici grant