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Proofreading and DNA Repair Assay Using Single Nucleotide Extension and MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Published on: June 19, 2018
DNA mismatch repair system. Classical and fresh roles
Sung-Hoon Jun1, Tae Gyun Kim, Changill Ban
1Department of Chemistry and Division of Molecular & Life Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Korea.
Abstract:
The molecular mechanisms of the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system have been uncovered over the last decade, especially in prokaryotes. The results obtained for prokaryotic MMR proteins have provided a framework for the study of the MMR system in eukaryotic organisms, such as yeast, mouse and human, because the functions of MMR proteins have been conserved during evolution from bacteria to humans. However, mutations in eukaryotic MMR genes result in pleiotropic phenotypes in addition to MMR defects, suggesting that eukaryotic MMR proteins have evolved to gain more diverse and specific roles in multicellular organisms. Here, we summarize recent advances in the understanding of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic MMR systems and describe various new functions of MMR proteins that have been intensively researched during the last few years, including DNA damage surveillance and diversification of antibodies.
Insights
The DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The molecular mechanisms of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) have been elucidated, particularly in prokaryotes.
- Prokaryotic MMR protein functions provide a foundation for studying eukaryotic MMR systems due to evolutionary conservation.
- Eukaryotic MMR proteins exhibit diverse roles beyond basic repair, especially in multicellular organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize recent advancements in understanding both prokaryotic and eukaryotic MMR systems.
- To describe novel functions of MMR proteins in areas like DNA damage surveillance and antibody diversification.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of MMR systems across prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
- Review of recent research on MMR protein functions.
Main Results:
- Conservation of MMR protein functions from bacteria to humans.
- Eukaryotic MMR proteins have evolved specialized roles, leading to pleiotropic phenotypes.
- New functions include DNA damage surveillance and antibody diversification.
Conclusions:
- MMR systems are conserved but have evolved diverse functions in eukaryotes.
- MMR proteins play critical roles in genomic stability and adaptive immunity.
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