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Fix the Wrecks, RecA
Author(s) -
Dubiel Katarzyna,
Liang Adream,
Sandholm Lily,
Keck James L
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.31.1_supplement.lb253
Subject(s) - rad51 , homologous recombination , dna , replication protein a , homologous chromosome , dna repair , dna replication , computational biology , biology , synapsis , genome , genetics , gene , dna binding protein , transcription factor
Accurate and complete DNA replication is essential to all life. However, collisions and obstacles that lead to DNA breaks are common. There are many proteins that have the essential job of correcting these mistakes. Some do this by trimming the broken ends of the strands and reconnecting them. RecA instead assists a more accurate method of repair called homologous replication. In this process, RecA binds to the broken strand of DNA and locates the same sequence on an intact duplicate strand. The ssDNA bound RecA then catalyzes a synapsis reaction between the filament and homologous double stranded DNA (dsDNA). Other proteins add complementary bases to synthesize a second copy of the missing section of the original single stranded DNA (ssDNA). Finally, the strands are separated to form a complete DNA and restore the missing information (Cox, MM. (2007)). Homologs of RecA are found in almost all organisms and are a critical part of genome maintenance and DNA repair. It is crucial for accurate homologous recombination which, when done incorrectly can lead to cancer and genome instability (Chen, Z., et al (2008)). When Rad51, the human homolog of RecA is dysregulated, it increases chances of cancer. Specifically, Rad51 is underexpressed in 100% of renal cell carcinomas (Liu, S., et al (2016)). Understanding the implications of cell repair regulation may allow for future cancer treatments. The Madison West High School SMART (Students Modeling A Research Topic) Team is Modeling RecA bound to DNA to learn more about the process of homologous recombination. Specifically, how the RecA filament interacts with DNA. Current science dictates that three RecA molecules interact with each nucleotide triplet in a DNA strand (Chen, Z., et al (2008); PDB: 3CMX), which we will be investigating in more detail. DNA replication is necessary for life, and when breaks occur in the DNA, it needs to be repaired. RecA recognizes the DNA damage, and performs homologous recombination. Understanding this process may aid in the development of novel cancer therapies, allowing for more cost‐effective treatments.