Characterization of Ustilago maydis DNA binding protein one (UBP1)

The DNA binding properties of a protein from the lower eukaryote Ustilago maydis have been characterized. Using both filter binding and gel retention assays, we demonstrate that this protein, termed UBP1 (Ustilago binding protein one), binds preferentially to DNA molecules lacking chain interruptions. The introduction of DNA breaks by a restriction enzyme or a purified nuclease, from Ustilago maydis, causes the dissociation of protein-DNA complexes. UBP1 stimulates the relaxation of negatively supercoiled DNA, mediated by Ustilago type I topoisomerase, through a mechanism most likely involving the association of UBP1 with the DNA rather than with the topoisomerase. The prebinding of UBP1 to DNA templates, subsequently assembled into minichromosomes, results in the development of a disorganized nucleosomal array. Possible roles for UBP1 in processes that involve changes in DNA topology, such as chromatin assembly, are discussed.