These tools will no longer be maintained as of December 31, 2024. Archived website can be found here. PubMed4Hh GitHub repository can be found here. Contact NLM Customer Service if you have questions.


Pubmed for Handhelds

PUBMED FOR HANDHELDS

Search MEDLINE/PubMed

  • Title: Reversible decatenation of kinetoplast DNA by a DNA topoisomerase from trypanosomatids.
    Author: Shlomai J, Zadok A.
    Journal: Nucleic Acids Res; 1983 Jun 25; 11(12):4019-34. PubMed ID: 6306572.
    Abstract:
    DNA topoisomerase activity detected in cell extracts of the trypanosomatid Crithidia fasciculata interlocks kinetoplast DNA duplex minicircles into huge catenane forms resembling the natural kinetoplast DNA networks found in trypanosomes. Catenation of duplex DNA circles is reversible and equilibrium is affected by ionic strength, and by spermidine. The reaction requires magnesium, is ATP dependent and is inhibited by high concentrations of novobiocin. Extensive homology between duplex DNA rings was not required for catenane formation since DNA circles with unrelated sequences could be interlocked into mixed network forms. Covalently sealed catenaned DNA circles are specifically used as substrates for decatenation. No such preference for covalently sealed duplex DNA rings was observed for catenate formation. Its catalytic properties and DNA substrate preference, suggest a potential role for this eukaryotic topoisomerase activity in the replication of kinetoplast DNA.
    [Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]