Download MendeleyThe [4Fe4S] cluster of human DNA primase functions as a redox switch using DNA charge transport.
O'Brien, E., Holt, M.E., Thompson, M.K., Salay, L.E., Ehlinger, A.C., Chazin, W.J., Barton, J.K.(2017) Science 355
- PubMed: 28232525
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aag1789
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:
5DQO, 5I7M - PubMed Abstract:
DNA charge transport chemistry offers a means of long-range, rapid redox signaling. We demonstrate that the [4Fe4S] cluster in human DNA primase can make use of this chemistry to coordinate the first steps of DNA synthesis. Using DNA electrochemistry, we found that a change in oxidation state of the [4Fe4S] cluster acts as a switch for DNA binding. Single-atom mutations that inhibit this charge transfer hinder primase initiation without affecting primase structure or polymerization. Generating a single base mismatch in the growing primer duplex, which attenuates DNA charge transport, inhibits primer truncation. Thus, redox signaling by [4Fe4S] clusters using DNA charge transport regulates primase binding to DNA and illustrates chemistry that may efficiently drive substrate handoff between polymerases during DNA replication.
Organizational Affiliation:
Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
