DNA recognition and structural specificities

How a short DNA sequence interacts in a sequence specific manner with appropriate protein is understood only in certain systems for which high resolution crystal structures of the protein-DNA complexes are available. The base sequence of DNA is sensed directly (read-out) by the protein through the major or minor groove, while DNA shape also is sensed through multiple interactions with the sugar phosphate backbone. Several repressors, activators and restriction endonucleases complexed with their cognate DNA oligomers are now known and reviewed here. If the binding site on DNA has two fold symmetry, the protein interacts as dimer and uses a variety of structural motifs for specific interaction. The level of specificity of interaction is enhanced by flexibility and/or distortion in either the DNA or protein tertiary structure.