Abstract
Virtually all models for recombination between homologous DNA sequences invoke a branched intermediate known as a Holliday structure. The terminal steps of recombination are postulated to involve a specific cleavage through the four-way junction of a Holliday structure, in a process known as resolution. We have constructed a synthetic Holliday structure in which the position of the junction of the DNA duplexes can branch migrate through approximately 185 bp. Using this structure, we have found that a component of a cytoplasmic extract of Hela cells is capable of cleaving the central junction of the substrate in a manner consistent with resolution. The activity requires a divalent cation but does not require an exogenous energy source. This is the first reported resolution activity from a mammalian source.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 10249-10266 |
Number of pages | 18 |
Journal | Nucleic acids research |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 21 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 11 1988 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Genetics