Article Abstract:
DNA helicases have long been known to play essential roles in key biological processes. However, the precise cellular functions and mechanisms of action of DNA helicases remain unclear. Recent studies that show the existence of a subclass of DNA helicases with a common hexameric ring structure indicate that helicases are not simply DNA-unwinding enzymes, as some quarters would like people to believe. However, this subclass should be fully experimented upon before definitive conclusions about their structures and functions can be reached.
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Article Abstract:
The medial-to-late stages of genetic recombination in Escherichia coli was reconstituted in vivo to characterize the role of RuvAB proteins. In vitro reconstitution of the medial-to-late steps of recombination in Escherichia coli cells indicated the role of RuvAb proteins in acting as intermediaries during the formation of the Holliday junction by RecA. Furthermore, RuvAB promoted the branch migration of Holliday junctions that was made by the RecA-DNA filament.
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Article Abstract:
A study shows that RAD51 paralogs are required in mammalian cells for normal levels of genetic recombination and resistance to DNA-damaging agents, and also that RAD51D is involved in telomere maintenance. The results conclude that RAD51D plays a dual cellular role in both the repair of DNA double-strand breaks, and telomere protection against attrition and fusion.
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