Initiating DNA replication: a matter of prime importance.

ABSTRACT: It has been known for decades that the principal replicative DNA polymerases that effect genome replication are incapable of starting DNA synthesis de novo Rather, they require a 3'-OH group from which to extend a DNA chain. Cellular DNA replication systems exploit a dedicated, limited processivity RNA polymerase, termed primase, that synthesizes a short oligoribonucleotide primer which is then extended by a DNA polymerase. Thus, primases can initiate synthesis, proceed with primer elongation for a short distance then transfer the primer to a DNA polymerase. Despite these well-established properties, the mechanistic basis of these dynamic behaviours has only recently been established. In the following, the author will describe recent insights from studies of the related eukaryotic a

SUBMITTER: Bell SD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6393858 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature