New insights into DNA-binding by type IIA topoisomerases
Journal
Current Opinion in Structural Biology
Journal Volume
23
Journal Issue
1
Pages
125-133
Date Issued
2013
Author(s)
Abstract
Type IIA topoisomerases catalyze the passage of two DNA duplexes across each other to resolve the entanglements and coiling of cellular DNA. The ability of these enzymes to interact simultaneously but differentially with two DNA segments is central to their DNA-manipulating functions: one duplex DNA is bound and cleaved to produce a transient double-strand break through which another DNA segment can be transported. Recent structural analyses have revealed in atomic detail how type IIA enzymes contact DNA and how the enzyme-DNA interactions may be exploited by drugs to achieve therapeutic purposes. This review summarizes these new findings, with a special focus on the assembly and structural features of the enzymes' composite DNA-binding surfaces.
Type
review