From DNA sequence recognition to directional chromosome segregation

Description

Faithful chromosome segregation is essential for all living organisms. Bacterial chromosome segregation utilizes highly conserved directional SpoIIIE/FtsK translocases to move large DNA molecules between spatially separated compartments. These translocases employ an accessory DNA-interacting domain (gamma) that dictates the direction of DNA transport by recognizing specific DNA sequences. To date it remains unclear how these translocases use DNA sequence information as a trigger to expend chemical energy (ATP turnover) and thereby power mechanical work (DNA movement). In this thesis, I undertook a mechanistic study of directional DNA movement by SpoIIIE from the Gram-positive model bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Specifically, I was interested in understanding the information transfer within the protein from sequence recognition, to ATP turnover, and ultimately to chromosome translocation. How do DNA sequences trigger directional chromosome movement?

Subjects

Other Editions

• From DNA sequence recognition to directional chromosome segregation: information transfer in the translocase protein SpoIIIEProQuest LLC2014-01-01
• From DNA sequence recognition to directional chromosome segregation2014