Novel structure at 5'-ends of nascent DNA chains

Because of their association with protein short nascent DNA chains in Escherichia coli can be separated from other cellular DNA by chromatography on hydroxylapatite. Protein-free DNA chains of less than 500 nucleotides in length are resistant to degradation from the 5'-end by alkaline phosphatase [orthophosphoric-monoester phosphohydrolase (alkaline optimum); EC 3.1.3.1] and spleen phosphodiesterase (oligonucleate 3'-nucleotidohydrolase; EC 3.1.4.18). In contrast, DNA chains containing more than 500 nucleotides are degradable. From these results we conclude that short nascent DNA chains are structurally modified at their 5'-ends. The nature of this structure and its possible functions are discussed.