A single-strand-specific DNA-binding protein from mouse cells that stimulates DNA polymerase

A protein of 30000-35000 molecular weight was isolated from mouse ascites cells. This protein binds preferentially to single-stranded DNA. Evidence is presented that this protein maintains single-stranded DNA in an extended configuration. In the presence of single-stranded template the protein stimulates mammalian DNA polymerase alpha but not the mammalian DNA polymerase beta and not some microbial DNA polymerases. The protein is phosphorylated in vitro by a chromatin-associated protein kinase. The modified DNA-binding protein does not stimulate the DNA polymerase alpha.