double-stranded DNA helicase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: ATP + H2O = ADP + phosphate, in the presence of double-stranded DNA; drives the unwinding of a DNA helix. [GOC:kmv]

Double-stranded DNA helicase activity refers to the ability of an enzyme, known as a DNA helicase, to unwind double-stranded DNA by breaking the hydrogen bonds between complementary nucleotide bases. This process is essential for various cellular processes, including DNA replication, transcription, and repair. DNA helicases use energy from ATP hydrolysis to move along a DNA strand, separating the two strands. They can move in a 5'-to-3' direction, a 3'-to-5' direction, or in both directions, depending on the specific helicase. The mechanism of DNA unwinding varies between different helicases but generally involves a combination of: 1. Binding to a double-stranded DNA molecule, often near a specific DNA sequence. 2. Using ATP hydrolysis to power conformational changes that pry apart the two strands. 3. Moving along the DNA molecule, keeping the strands separated. The activity of DNA helicases is tightly regulated to ensure proper DNA replication and repair. Defects in helicase function can lead to genomic instability and various diseases.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)