Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA): a key factor in DNA replication and cell cycle regulation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) has been found in the nuclei of yeast, plant and animal cells that undergo cell division, suggesting a function in cell cycle regulation and/or DNA replication. It subsequently became clear that PCNA also played a role in other processes involving the cell genome.

Scope

This review discusses eukaryotic PCNA, with an emphasis on plant PCNA, in terms of the protein structure and its biochemical properties as well as gene structure, organization, expression and function. PCNA exerts a tripartite function by operating as (1) a sliding clamp during DNA synthesis, (2) a polymerase switch factor and (3) a recruitment factor. Most of its functions are mediated by its interactions with various proteins involved in DNA synthesis, re

SUBMITTER: Strzalka W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3091797 | biostudies-literature | 2011 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature