Helicases
Articles tagged with Helicases
AACR: First-in-class covalent Werner helicase inhibitor shows clinical proof-of-concept in Phase I trial
The treatment demonstrated early signals of efficacy, with 65.7% of patients experiencing lasting stable disease, and was generally well-tolerated, with most adverse events being mild and manageable.
Breakthrough molecular movie reveals DNA’s unzipping mechanism with implications for viral and cancer treatments
Scientists have captured the first detailed molecular movie of DNA being unzipped at the atomic level, revealing how cells copy their genetic material. The discovery has significant implications for understanding viral and cancer replication.
Scientists see the first steps of DNA unwinding
For the first time, scientists have witnessed the moment DNA begins to unravel, revealing a necessary molecular event for DNA replication. This direct observation sheds light on the fundamental mechanisms that allow cells to faithfully duplicate their genetic material.
Werner syndrome RECQ helicase and heterochromatin maintenance in human cells
Researchers discovered Werner syndrome gene WRN plays a crucial role in maintaining constitutive heterochromatin structure, essential for DNA stability. Loss of WRN function disrupts protein interactions, potentially accelerating aging due to cellular disorganization.
Protein involved in balancing DNA replication and restarting found
A team of researchers has identified the USP50 protein's role in regulating DNA replication by deciding which enzymes to use during critical processes. The study found that USP50 helps cells balance nuclease and helicase activity, preventing replication defects when it is absent.
Proteomics uncover sexual dimorphism and immune changes in aging mice with Werner syndrome
Researchers found that Werner syndrome mice experience age-dependent and sex-specific changes in their livers and immune systems, including fatty liver accumulation and altered lipid metabolism. These findings suggest a potential link between immunoglobulin variants and fatty liver progression in the disorder.
Rogue enzymes cause numerous diseases. A new method could help design drugs to treat them.
Researchers have developed a powerful platform to design molecules targeting helicases involved in COVID and certain cancers. The new approach uses electrophilic small molecules to scout out weak points in the enzyme, providing chemical starting points for developing drugs.
DDX41: A key nuclear player in maintaining genomic stability
Researchers have characterized the functional significance of DDX41 in molecular processes underlying cancer. The study reveals that DDX41 serves crucial functions in transcriptional processes, RNA splicing, and genomic integrity maintenance, which may hold significance in treating hematopoietic malignancies.
Rice models moving ‘washers’ that help DNA replicate
Researchers have modelled a key mechanism by which DNA replicates, revealing details about how helicases wrangle DNA during replication. The simulations showed each step of translocation can travel more than 12 nucleotides along the backbone, pinpointing interactions involved in long-distance movement.
Role identified for key gene in developmental disability syndrome
Duke researchers identify DDX3X gene as crucial for neuron formation and brain development, with dosage-dependent defects leading to developmental disabilities. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying DDX3X syndrome and related disorders, potentially paving the way for therapies.
Aging-US | WRNing for the right DNA repair pathway choice
A recent study published in Aging-US reveals the crucial role of WRN in making choices between classical and alternative non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair pathways. The research provides new insights into progeroid syndromes, such as Werner syndrome, and their connection to aging.
New microscopy method offers 3D tracking of 100 single molecules at once
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new microscopy method that can track 100 single molecules simultaneously in three dimensions. The technique uses surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology to precisely image molecular binding events and study their dynamic activities in real time.
The precise function of the RNA helicases in ribosome synthesis
Researchers used a yeast model to understand the dynamics of early-stage ribosomal subunit assembly, discovering snR190 functions as an RNA chaperone. The study also identified Dbp7 as the enzyme responsible for dissociating snR190 from ribosomal RNA precursors.
Tool encoded in coronaviruses provides a potential target for COVID-19
Researchers identify nsp13 as a key helicase enzyme in coronaviruses, which could be targeted for COVID-19 treatment and prevention. The study found that nsp13 is a relatively weak helicase requiring assistance to function, providing a potential first line of defense against future coronavirus outbreaks.
Rare quadruple-helix DNA found in living human cells with glowing probes
Scientists have created glowing probes to visualize four-stranded DNA in living cells, revealing its interaction with molecules and shedding light on its role in cancer and other diseases. The discovery opens up new avenues for research and potential drug development.
In one direction or the other: That is how DNA is unwound
A study published in PNAS reveals that DNA helicases unwind the double strand more easily in one direction than the other, with the speed of unwinding depending on the sequence composition of the bases. This discovery has implications for understanding gene expression and the regulation of cellular activities.
Tip sheet: Recent research on how DNA is read and copied
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have unraveled how the DNA machinery fits together, revealing a paradigm shift in understanding genetic illness. The discovery of how nucleosomes change shape to bind with an enzyme could unveil new treatment opportunities for childhood leukemia.
Study finds that enzymes 'partner up' to accelerate cancer, aging diseases
Researchers at Indiana University have identified two enzymes that combine to speed up telomere growth, potentially leading to new ways to treat cancer and premature aging disorders. The study sheds light on the role of helicases in telomere maintenance and may lead to the development of new therapies.
Cryo-EM imaging suggests how the double helix separates during replication
Researchers have gained insight into how the double helix unwinds in the earliest stages of DNA replication. The new cryo-EM images show that the twin helicase enzymes load head to head, forming a complex that positions one strand for extrusion and another as the leading strand.
Cryo-EM reveals ignition mechanism for DNA replication
Scientists at Van Andel Research Institute and collaborators have shed new light on the critical step of DNA replication, revealing a spring-loaded mechanism that positions DNA strands toward two side-way gates. This discovery offers fresh insights into a fundamental process of life and driver of many different diseases, including cancer.
'Exciting' discovery on path to develop new type of vaccine to treat global viruses
Researchers at University of Southampton discover natural killer cells can recognize global pathogens through a single receptor, paving the way for a new type of vaccine. The study identifies a non-variable part of the virus called the NS3 helicase protein as a key target for the immune system.
Scientists reveal open-ringed structure of Cdt1-Mcm2-7 complex
The study reveals a left-handed coil structure of the Mcm2-7 hexamer and Cdt1-MCM heptamer, shedding light on DNA unwinding mechanisms. The open-coil structure has profound implications for understanding DNA replication initiation and elongation.
ORC as Loader of the Rings
Researchers have mapped the critical steps of DNA replication, revealing how a ring-shaped protein called origin recognition complex (ORC) initiates the process by slipping into a groove on DNA and initiating a cascade of microscopic interactions. The study provides new insights into an immensely complex system that is constantly ongoi...
New study reveals the structure of DNA helicase at the replication fork
A new study reveals the structure of DNA helicase at the replication fork, reversing a long-held assumption about its orientation. The findings provide a crucial piece in understanding how life propagates and may lead to new treatments for diseases such as cancers and anemias.
Squeezing life from DNA's double helix
Researchers have solved the mystery of DNA replication by identifying a ring of proteins that binds to origin DNA, causing it to melt and initiate replication. This discovery could lead to understanding genetic duplication and potentially blocking viral pathogens and cancer cells.
Cracking the mystery of Zika virus replication
Researchers from Tianjin University and Nankai University have unraveled the puzzle of how Zika virus replicates. They discovered a tunnel in the enzyme that holds viral RNA, allowing it to unwind its genetic material. This breakthrough could lead to the development of antiretroviral drugs against this spreading disease.
Eukaryote process of programmed fork arrest determined
Cells use programmed fork arrest to halt DNA replication at terminator sites, controlling life span and preserving genome stability. The process involves proteins working together to calibrate fork movement, preventing constant machinery operation.
Researchers solve the structure of the Zika virus helicase
Scientists have successfully obtained a high-resolution image of the Zika virus helicase, a key target for antiviral development. The structural information will help researchers design and develop effective small-molecule inhibitors to stop viral replication and prevent disease.
Proofreading molecules tug on RNA to ensure protein production accuracy
Researchers found proofreading molecules apply physical tension to RNA, preventing splicing errors and enabling alternative splicing sites. This mechanism regulates splice site choice, shifting the perspective on the realm of possible activities for this class of enzymes.
Scientists propose 'pumpjack' mechanism for splitting and copying DNA
Researchers proposed a new mechanism for DNA replication called the 'pumpjack' mechanism, which involves a molecular machine with two distinct conformations that rock back and forth to split the DNA double helix. This linear translocation mechanism appears different from previously thought mechanisms in more primitive organisms.
First complete pictures of cells' DNA-copying machinery
Researchers have produced the first-ever images of the protein complex that unwinds, splits, and copies double-stranded DNA, revealing a counterintuitive architecture. The helicase coordinates with polymerases to duplicate each strand, suggesting potential molecular quality control and developmental biology implications.
Study reveals the architecture of the molecular machine that copies DNA
A team of researchers has revealed the molecular architecture of the replisome, a complex responsible for unwinding and replicating DNA in eukaryotic organisms. The findings show that the replisome has a unique structure, with one polymerase sitting above the helicase, challenging decades-old textbook drawings.
FSU researcher identifies protein with promise for cancer therapy
Researchers at Florida State University have identified a protein called Treslin that shows promise in stopping the unregulated division of cancer cells. Treslin stimulates the activation of helicase, a key enzyme involved in DNA replication, and assembles it for cell division.
New lab technique reveals structure and function of proteins critical in DNA repair
Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a new lab technique that simultaneously observes protein structure and function in DNA repair. The technique, combining fluorescence microscopy and optical trapping, provides definitive answers to long-debated questions and opens up new avenues for biological engineering.
Key moment mapped in assembly of DNA-splitting molecular machine
Researchers pinpoint key moments in the beginning of DNA replication, including structural details about the enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix. The study's findings offer insights into how the enzyme becomes reactivated to begin its work splitting the DNA.
Molecular gate that could keep cancer cells locked up
A team of researchers has identified a unique molecular mechanism involved in DNA duplication during cell division, revealing how a key enzyme governs DNA through a gated system. The study suggests a route for stopping cell division in diseases like cancer by controlling the entry point of the helicase onto DNA.
Key step in molecular 'dance' that duplicates DNA deciphered
Researchers have captured a key step in the molecular 'dance' necessary for cell division by imaging the enzyme that unwinds DNA double helices. The study reveals how this enzyme recruits and interacts with the origin recognition complex, enhancing understanding of essential biological processes.
Random walks on DNA
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism of DNA helicase that utilizes thermal motion to move long distances along DNA, providing an energy-efficient way to unwind double-stranded DNA
Celebrating the golden anniversary of a remarkable science agency
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) is honoring its 50th anniversary with a symposium showcasing research advancements in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. NIGMS has funded over 74 Nobel laureates and supports research training programs to foster the next generation of scientists.
For unzipping DNA mysteries -- literally -- Cornell physicists discover how a vital enzyme works
Researchers observe helicase enzymes unzipping DNA by manipulating single molecules and observing nucleotide effects. They found ATP can cause unwinding, but only in single-molecule studies.
New research describes key function of enzyme involved in RNA processing
Researchers discovered that Mtr4p, a RNA helicase, controls the number of adenosines appended to RNAs by TRAMP complex. This tagging is critical for cell function and preservation of normal cell process initiation.
Ends of chromosomes protected by stacked, coiled DNA caps
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered how telomere caps, made up of G-quadruplexes, protect chromosomes from unraveling. This discovery has implications for studying human aging, Werner syndrome, and Bloom syndrome.
Scripps Research scientists identify key interaction in hepatitis C virus
Researchers found that the core protein interacts with non-structural helicase protein, playing a critical role in viral replication. This new understanding supports a potential new therapeutic target for hepatitis C drug development and may prevent production of infectious viral particles.
Researchers advance understanding of enzyme that regulates DNA
Researchers have revealed the mechanisms of the DNA-regulating enzyme PcrA, which controls recombination by removing recombination proteins from the DNA. By combining structure-specific binding and motor function, PcrA reels in DNA and kicks off recombination proteins.
Atomic-level snapshot catches protein motor in action
Researchers have uncovered the critical action shapshot of an enzyme known as the Rho transcription termination factor, a remarkable class of ring-shaped protein motors. The study reveals a rotary engine-like mechanism that enables the motor to selectively terminate transcription at discrete points along the genome.
UC San Diego biologists discover a motor protein that rewinds DNA
Researchers identify HARP, the first motor protein that rewinds defective DNA, preventing gene expression and potentially treating Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia. The discovery expands our understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying this devastating genetic disorder.
The structure of XPD sheds light on cancer and aging
Researchers have solved the XPD protein structure, revealing how small changes in its architecture can cause different diseases. The findings provide novel insight into the processes of aging and cancer.
Researchers probe a DNA repair enzyme
The researchers studied the archaeal version of Rad3, a unique helicase involved in DNA repair. The findings revealed that the integrity of an iron-sulfur cluster is crucial for proper function of the enzyme.
Human RecQ helicases, homologous recombination and genomic instability
Research on human RecQ helicases reveals their role in regulating homologous recombination, a DNA repair pathway. Mutations in these enzymes cause cancer-predisposition syndromes, highlighting their importance in maintaining genomic stability.
Hepatitis C helicase unwinds DNA in a spring-loaded, 3-step process
Researchers have shed new light on how the Hepatitis C helicase plays its role in duplicating genes by tracking the gradual separation of nucleotide pairs. The study found that the helicase unwinds DNA in discrete jumps, requiring three ATP molecules for each reaction.
CU researchers solve mystery of how DNA strands separate
Cornell researchers have solved a fundamental question about DNA strand separation by demonstrating the active role of an enzyme called helicase. The study found that helicase exerts a force onto the fork and separates the two strands, contradicting earlier passive unwinding mechanisms.
Dual enzymatic activity of RECQ1 explained by different quaternary structures
Researchers describe two structural forms of human RECQ1 helicase, which regulate its dual enzymatic activity. The larger complex is associated with DNA strand annealing, while the smaller form carries out DNA unwinding.
Sisyphean movement of motor proteins may help preserve DNA integrity
Researchers found that motor proteins can snap back to their starting point when hitting obstacles, potentially playing a role in maintaining genome integrity. This 'recycling action' may prevent the accumulation of toxic proteins on DNA.
Yale scientists visualize details of how hepatitis C unwinds RNA
Researchers at Yale University have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the helicase function of the hepatitis C virus. By visualizing the behavior of the viral enzyme NS3, scientists discovered that it moves with a discontinuous stepping motion that alternates rapid translocation with pausing.
Findings redefine mechanism of action of RNA helicase enzymes
Researchers from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have discovered that RNA helicases can displace proteins from single-stranded RNA and change shape without unwinding duplexes. This finding redefines the mechanism of action of RNA helicases, providing new insights into their roles in various biological processes.
St. Jude researchers create image of enzyme that orchestrates natural genetic engineering
Scientists have developed a 3D image of the UvsW enzyme, crucial for understanding replication-dependent replication in human cells. The findings reveal how this enzyme orchestrates the process by which viruses, plants and animals introduce new genes into DNA during replication.
DNA unzipping found to take at least two proteins, not one alone
New research has solved a long-standing mystery about DNA unzipping, revealing that it requires at least two proteins working together. The study found that if one protein falls away, the process stops and DNA reverts to its zipped state unless another protein joins in.
Peering at a machine that pries DNA apart
Harvard researchers have created the first atomic-resolution image of a donut-shaped enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix for replication. The structure reveals how six individual polypeptide lobes arrange themselves to look like a ring of bread buns, providing new insights into the molecular motor's mechanism.
Scientists Show Proteins Function Individually As Part Of DNA Repair
Researchers at UNC-CH discovered DNA helicase II can act individually in DNA repair, similar to fixing a car. This finding brings scientists closer to correcting defective biological processes and treating diseases like Werner's and Bloom's syndromes.