The Eukaryotic homology search complex distorts donor DNA structure to probe for homology.

ABSTRACT: Homologous recombination (HR) is a DNA double-strand break repair pathway that facilitates genetic exchange and protects damaged replication forks during DNA synthesis. As a template-based repair process, the successful repair of a double-strand break depends on locating suitable homology from a donor DNA sequence elsewhere in the genome. In eukaryotes, Rad51 catalyzes the homology search in coordination with the ATP-dependent motor protein Rad54. The mechanism by which these two proteins regulate forces on dsDNA substrates during homology search remains unknown. Here, we have utilized single-molecule magnetic tweezers and optical trapping methods to monitor remodeling of the DNA template during the homology search. We find that the activity of Rad51 and Rad54 remodels the donor DNA substr

SUBMITTER: Woodhouse MV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12407866 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature