Open AccessCommon domains in the initiators of DNA replication in Bacteria , Archaea and Eukarya : combined structural, functional and phylogenetic perspectives
Author(s) -
Giraldo Rafael
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
fems microbiology reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.91
H-Index - 212
eISSN - 1574-6976
pISSN - 0168-6445
DOI - 10.1111/j.1574-6976.2003.tb00629.x
Subject(s) - biology , archaea , three domain system , dna replication , origin of replication , genetics , bacteria , origin recognition complex , dna , phylogenetic tree , minichromosome maintenance , pre replication complex , evolutionary biology , eukaryotic dna replication , gene
Although DNA replication is the universal process for the transmission of genetic information in all living organisms, until very recently evidence was lacking for a related structure and function in the proteins (initiators) that trigger replication in the three ‘Life Domains’ ( Bacteria , Archaea and Eukarya ). In this article new data concerning the presence of common features in the initiators of chromosomal replication in bacteria, archaea and eukaryotes are reviewed. Initiators are discussed in the light of: (i) The structure and function of their conserved A TPases A ssociated with various cellular A ctivities (AAA+) and winged–helix domains. (ii) The nature of the macromolecular assemblies that they constitute at the replication origins. (iii) Their possible phylogenetic relationship, attempting to sketch the essentials of a hypothetical DNA replication initiator in the micro‐organism proposed to be the ancestor of all living cells.