Rad54 is dispensable for the ALT pathway

Genes Cells. 2006 Nov;11(11):1305-15. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2443.2006.01020.x.

Abstract

Some immortal cells use the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway to maintain their telomeres instead of telomerase. Previous studies revealed that homologous recombination (HR) contributes to the ALT pathway. To further elucidate molecular mechanisms, we inactivated Rad54 involved in HR, in mouse ALT embryonic stem (ES) cells. Although Rad54-deficient ALT ES cells showed radiosensitivity in line with expectation, cell growth and telomeres were maintained for more than 200 cell divisions. Furthermore, although MMC-stimulated sister chromatid exchange (SCE) was suppressed in the Rad54-deficient ALT ES cells, ALT-associated telomere SCE was not affected. This is the first genetic evidence that mouse Rad54 is dispensable for the ALT pathway.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Line
  • DNA Helicases
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Nuclear Proteins / deficiency
  • Nuclear Proteins / genetics
  • Nuclear Proteins / metabolism*
  • Recombination, Genetic
  • Signal Transduction
  • Sister Chromatid Exchange
  • Telomere / metabolism*

Substances

  • Nuclear Proteins
  • DNA Helicases
  • Rad54l protein, mouse