Helicase loading: how to build a MCM2-7 double-hexamer

Semin Cell Dev Biol. 2014 Jun:30:104-9. doi: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.03.008. Epub 2014 Mar 14.

Abstract

A central step in eukaryotic initiation of DNA replication is the loading of the helicase at replication origins, misregulation of this reaction leads to DNA damage and genome instability. Here we discuss how the helicase becomes recruited to origins and loaded into a double-hexamer around double-stranded DNA. We specifically describe the individual steps in complex assembly and explain how this process is regulated to maintain genome stability. Structural analysis of the helicase loader and the helicase has provided key insights into the process of double-hexamer formation. A structural comparison of the bacterial and eukaryotic system suggests a mechanism of helicase loading.

Keywords: DNA replication; Helicase; Licensing; MCM2-7; Pre-RC.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Replication
  • Genomic Instability
  • Humans
  • Minichromosome Maintenance Proteins / chemistry
  • Minichromosome Maintenance Proteins / metabolism*
  • Models, Molecular
  • Protein Multimerization*
  • Protein Structure, Quaternary
  • Replication Origin

Substances

  • Minichromosome Maintenance Proteins