DNA strand exchange activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the identification and base-pairing of homologous sequences between single-stranded DNA and double-stranded DNA. [GOC:elh]

DNA strand exchange activity is a critical molecular function in various biological processes, particularly in DNA replication, recombination, and repair. This activity involves the exchange of strands between two DNA duplexes, resulting in the formation of new hybrid molecules. The mechanism typically involves a series of steps: 1) Recognition and binding of the two DNA duplexes by the strand exchange protein. 2) Separation of the strands in one or both duplexes. 3) Pairing of complementary strands from the two different duplexes. 4) Formation of a stable heteroduplex molecule, which is a hybrid DNA molecule containing strands from both parental duplexes. 5) Resolution of the Holliday junction, a branched structure that forms when two DNA duplexes exchange strands, to produce two separate duplexes. Enzymes involved in DNA strand exchange activity include: 1) RecA recombinase, a key player in homologous recombination, which catalyses the search for homology, strand invasion, and DNA strand exchange. 2) RuvA and RuvB proteins, which are involved in the resolution of Holliday junctions. 3) Rad51 recombinase, which plays a crucial role in DNA repair by homologous recombination.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (4)