3'-5' DNA helicase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Unwinding a DNA helix in the direction 5' to 3', driven by ATP hydrolysis. [EC:5.6.2.4, GOC:jl]

3'-5' DNA helicase activity is a crucial molecular function involved in unwinding the double-stranded DNA helix. This process is essential for various cellular processes, including DNA replication, transcription, and DNA repair. DNA helicases use the energy derived from ATP hydrolysis to break the hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs, separating the two DNA strands. The 3'-5' directionality indicates that the helicase moves along the DNA strand in the 3' to 5' direction, unwinding the DNA ahead of it. This directional movement is critical for the coordinated action of DNA helicases with other enzymes involved in DNA metabolism, such as DNA polymerases and primases. The unwinding process facilitated by 3'-5' DNA helicase activity is highly regulated and involves specific protein-protein interactions and recognition of specific DNA sequences. Mutations or dysregulation of 3'-5' DNA helicase activity can have serious consequences, leading to genome instability and various diseases.'
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Proteins (5)

Compounds (2)