RecQ helicases: multiple structures for multiple functions?

ABSTRACT: Approximately 1% of the open reading frames in the human genome encode proteins that function as DNA or RNA helicases. These enzymes act in all aspects of nucleic acid metabolism where the complementary strands of DNA:DNA or DNA:RNA duplexes require to be transiently opened. However, they perform wider roles in nucleic acid metabolism due to their ability to couple the energy derived from hydrolysis of ATP to their unidirectional translocation along strands of DNARNA. In this way, helicases can displace proteins from DNARNA, drive the migration of DNA junctions (such as the Holliday junction recombination intermediate), or generate superhelical tension in nucleic acid duplexes. Here, we review a subgroup of DNA helicase enzymes, the RecQ family, that has attracted considerable interest in

SUBMITTER: Vindigni A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2714954 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature