ATP hydrolysis and DNA binding by the Escherichia coli RecF protein

Generation and Repair of Postreplication Gaps in Escherichia coli

When replication forks encounter template lesions, one result is lesion skipping, where the stalled DNA polymerase transiently stalls, disengages, and then reinitiates downstream to leave the lesion behind in a postreplication gap. Despite considerable attention in the 6 decades since postreplication gaps were discovered, the mechanisms by which postreplication gaps are generated and repaired remain highly enigmatic. This review focuses on postreplication gap generation and repair in the bacterium Escherichia coli. New information to address the frequency and mechanism of gap generation and new mechanisms for their resolution are described. There are a few instances where the formation of postreplication gaps appears to be programmed into particular genomic locations, where they are triggered by novel genomic elements.

RecF protein targeting to postreplication (daughter strand) gaps I: DNA binding by RecF and RecFR

In bacteria, the repair of post-replication gaps by homologous recombination requires the action of the recombination mediator proteins RecF, RecO and RecR. Whereas the role of the RecOR proteins to displace the single strand binding protein (SSB) and facilitate RecA loading is clear, how RecF mediates targeting of the system to appropriate sites remains enigmatic. The most prominent hypothesis relies on specific RecF binding to gap ends. To test this idea, we present a detailed examination of RecF and RecFR binding to more than 40 DNA substrates of varying length and structure. Neither RecF nor the RecFR complex exhibited specific DNA binding that can explain the targeting of RecF(R) to post-replication gaps. RecF(R) bound to dsDNA and ssDNA of sufficient length with similar facility. DNA binding was highly ATP-dependent. Most measured Kd values fell into a range of 60-180 nM. The addition of ssDNA extensions on duplex substrates to mimic gap ends or CPD lesions produces only subtle increases or decreases in RecF(R) affinity. Significant RecFR binding cooperativity was evident with many DNA substrates. The results indicate that RecF or RecFR targeting to post-replication gaps must rely on factors not yet identified, perhaps involving interactions with additional proteins.

RecF protein targeting to post-replication (daughter strand) gaps II: RecF interaction with replisomes

The bacterial RecF, RecO, and RecR proteins are an epistasis group involved in loading RecA protein into post-replication gaps. However, the targeting mechanism that brings these proteins to appropriate gaps is unclear. Here, we propose that targeting may involve a direct interaction between RecF and DnaN. In vivo, RecF is commonly found at the replication fork. Over-expression of RecF, but not RecO or a RecF ATPase mutant, is extremely toxic to cells. We provide evidence that the molecular basis of the toxicity lies in replisome destabilization. RecF over-expression leads to loss of genomic replisomes, increased recombination associated with post-replication gaps, increased plasmid loss, and SOS induction. Using three different methods, we document direct interactions of RecF with the DnaN β-clamp and DnaG primase that may underlie the replisome effects. In a single-molecule rolling-circle replication system in vitro, physiological levels of RecF protein trigger post-replication gap formation. We suggest that the RecF interactions, particularly with DnaN, reflect a functional link between post-replication gap creation and gap processing by RecA. RecF's varied interactions may begin to explain how the RecFOR system is targeted to rare lesion-containing post-replication gaps, avoiding the potentially deleterious RecA loading onto thousands of other gaps created during replication.

Mechanism of RecF-RecO-RecR cooperation in bacterial homologous recombination

In bacteria, one type of homologous-recombination-based DNA-repair pathway involves RecFOR proteins that bind at the junction between single-stranded (ss) and double-stranded (ds) DNA. They facilitate the replacement of SSB protein, which initially covers ssDNA, with RecA, which mediates the search for homologous sequences. However, the molecular mechanism of RecFOR cooperation remains largely unknown. We used Thermus thermophilus proteins to study this system. Here, we present a cryo-electron microscopy structure of the RecF-dsDNA complex, and another reconstruction that shows how RecF interacts with two different regions of the tetrameric RecR ring. Lower-resolution reconstructions of the RecR-RecO subcomplex and the RecFOR-DNA assembly explain how RecO is positioned to interact with ssDNA and SSB, which is proposed to lock the complex on a ssDNA-dsDNA junction. Our results integrate the biochemical data available for the RecFOR system and provide a framework for its complete understanding.

ATPase Activity of Bacillus subtilis RecA Affects the Dynamic Formation of RecA Filaments at DNA Double Strand Breaks

RecA plays a central role in DNA repair and is a main actor involved in homologous recombination (HR). In vivo, RecA forms filamentous structures termed "threads," which are essential for HR, but whose nature is still ill defined. We show that RecA from Bacillus subtilis having lower ATP binding activity can still form nucleoprotein filaments in vitro, features lower dsDNA binding activity, but still retains most of wild type RecA activity in vivo. Contrarily, loss of ATPase activity strongly reduced formation of nucleoprotein filaments in vitro, and effectivity to repair double strand breaks (DSBs) in vivo. In the presence of wild type RecA protein, additionally expressed RecA with lowered ATPbinding activity only moderately affected RecA dynamics, while loss of ATPase activity leads to a large reduction of the formation of threads, as well as of their dynamic changes observed in a seconds-scale. Single molecule tracking of RecA revealed incorporation of freely diffusing and nonspecifically DNA-bound molecules into threads upon induction of a single DSB. This change of dynamics was highly perturbed in the absence of ATPase activity, revealing that filamentous forms of RecA as well as their dynamics depend on ATPase activity. Based on the idea that ATPase activity of RecA is most important for DNA strand exchange activity, our data suggest that extension and retraction of threads due is to many local strand invasion events during the search for sequences homologous to the induced DNA break site. IMPORTANCE Single-strand (ss) DNA binding ATPase RecA is the central recombinase in homologous recombination, and therefore essential for DNA repair pathways involving DNA strand exchange reactions. In several bacterial, RecA forms filamentous structures along the long axis of cells after induction of double strand breaks (DSBs) in the chromosome. These striking assemblies likely reflect RecA/ssDNA nucleoprotein filaments, which can extend and remodel within a time frame of few minutes. We show that ATPase activity of RecA is pivotal for these dynamic rearrangements, which include recruitment of freely diffusing molecules into low-mobile molecules within filaments. Our data suggest that ssDNA binding- and unbinding reactions are at the heart of RecA dynamics that power the dynamics of subcellular filamentous assemblies, leading to strand exchange reactions over a distance of several micrometers.

Elucidating Recombination Mediator Function Using Biophysical Tools

Simple Summary

This review recapitulates the initial knowledge acquired with genetics and biochemical experiments on Recombination mediator proteins in different domains of life. We further address how recent in vivo and in vitro biophysical tools were critical to deepen the understanding of RMPs molecular mechanisms in DNA and replication repair, and unveiled unexpected features. For instance, in bacteria, genetic and biochemical studies suggest a close proximity and coordination of action of the RecF, RecR and RecO proteins in order to ensure their RMP function, which is to overcome the single-strand binding protein (SSB) and facilitate the loading of the recombinase RecA onto ssDNA. In contrary to this expectation, using single-molecule fluorescent imaging in living cells, we showed recently that RecO and RecF do not colocalize and moreover harbor different spatiotemporal behavior relative to the replication machinery, suggesting distinct functions. Finally, we address how new biophysics tools could be used to answer outstanding questions about RMP function.

Abstract

The recombination mediator proteins (RMPs) are ubiquitous and play a crucial role in genome stability. RMPs facilitate the loading of recombinases like RecA onto single-stranded (ss) DNA coated by single-strand binding proteins like SSB. Despite sharing a common function, RMPs are the products of a convergent evolution and differ in (1) structure, (2) interaction partners and (3) molecular mechanisms. The RMP function is usually realized by a single protein in bacteriophages and eukaryotes, respectively UvsY or Orf, and RAD52 or BRCA2, while in bacteria three proteins RecF, RecO and RecR act cooperatively to displace SSB and load RecA onto a ssDNA region. Proteins working alongside to the RMPs in homologous recombination and DNA repair notably belongs to the RAD52 epistasis group in eukaryote and the RecF epistasis group in bacteria. Although RMPs have been studied for several decades, molecular mechanisms at the single-cell level are still not fully understood. Here, we summarize the current knowledge acquired on RMPs and review the crucial role of biophysical tools to investigate molecular mechanisms at the single-cell level in the physiological context.

Structural and functional roles of dynamically correlated residues in thymidylate kinase

Thymidylate kinase is an important enzyme in DNA synthesis. It catalyzes the conversion of thymidine monophosphate to thymidine diphosphate, with ATP as the preferred phosphoryl donor, in the presence of Mg²⁺. In this study, the dynamics of the active site and the communication paths between the substrates, ATP and TMP, are reported for thymidylate kinase from Thermus thermophilus. Conformational changes upon ligand binding and the path for communication between the substrates and the protein are important in understanding the catalytic mechanism of the enzyme. High-resolution X-ray crystal structures of thymidylate kinase in apo and ligand-bound states were solved. This is the first report of structures of binary and ternary complexes of thymidylate kinase with its natural substrates ATP and ATP-TMP, respectively. Distinct conformations of the active-site residues, the P-loop and the LID region observed in the apo and ligand-bound structures revealed that their concerted motion is required for the binding and proper positioning of the substrate TMP. Structural analyses provide an insight into the mode of substrate binding at the active site. The residues involved in communication between the substrates were identified through network analysis using molecular-dynamics simulations. The residues identified showed high sequence conservation across species. Biochemical analyses show that mutations of these residues either resulted in a loss of activity or affected the thermal stability of the protein. Further, molecular-dynamics analyses of mutants suggest that the proper positioning of TMP is important for catalysis. These data also provide an insight into the phosphoryl-transfer mechanism.

ATP-dependent conformational change in ABC-ATPase RecF serves as a switch in DNA repair

RecF is a principal member of the RecF pathway. It interacts with RecO and RecR to initiate homologous recombination by loading RecA recombinases on single-stranded DNA and displacing single-stranded DNA-binding proteins. As an ATP-binding cassette ATPase, RecF exhibits ATP-dependent dimerization and structural homology with Rad50 and SMC proteins. However, the mechanism and action pattern of RecF ATP-dependent dimerization remains unclear. Here, We determined three crystal structures of TTERecF, TTERecF-ATP and TTERecF-ATPɤS from Thermoanaerobacter tengcongensis that reveal a novel ATP-driven RecF dimerization. RecF contains a positively charged tunnel on its dimer interface that is essential to ATP binding. Our structural and biochemical data indicate that the Walker A motif serves as a switch and plays a key role in ATP binding and RecF dimerization. Furthermore, Biolayer interferometry assay results showed that the TTERecF interacted with ATP and formed a dimer, displaying a higher affinity for DNA than that of the TTERecF monomer. Overall, our results provide a solid structural basis for understanding the process of RecF binding with ATP and the functional mechanism of ATP-dependent RecF dimerization.

Advances in structural studies of recombination mediator proteins

Recombination mediator proteins (RMPs) are critical for genome integrity in all organisms. They include phage UvsY, prokaryotic RecF, -O, -R (RecFOR) and eukaryotic Rad52, Breast Cancer susceptibility 2 (BRCA2) and Partner and localizer of BRCA2 (PALB2) proteins. BRCA2 and PALB2 are tumor suppressors implicated in cancer. RMPs regulate binding of RecA-like recombinases to sites of DNA damage to initiate the most efficient non-mutagenic repair of broken chromosome and other deleterious DNA lesions. Mechanistically, RMPs stimulate a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) hand-off from ssDNA binding proteins (ssbs) such as gp32, SSB and RPA, to recombinases, activating DNA repair only at the time and site of the damage event. This review summarizes structural studies of RMPs and their implications for understanding mechanism and function. Comparative analysis of RMPs is complicated due to their convergent evolution. In contrast to the evolutionary conserved ssbs and recombinases, RMPs are extremely diverse in sequence and structure. Structural studies are particularly important in such cases to reveal common features of the entire family and specific features of regulatory mechanisms for each member. All RMPs are characterized by specific DNA-binding domains and include variable protein interaction motifs. The complexity of such RMPs corresponds to the ever-growing number of DNA metabolism events they participate in under normal and pathological conditions and requires additional comprehensive structure-functional studies.

RecF and RecR Play Critical Roles in the Homologous Recombination and Single-Strand Annealing Pathways of Mycobacteria

Mycobacteria encode three DNA double-strand break repair pathways: (i) RecA-dependent homologous recombination (HR), (ii) Ku-dependent nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), and (iii) RecBCD-dependent single-strand annealing (SSA). Mycobacterial HR has two presynaptic pathway options that rely on the helicase-nuclease AdnAB and the strand annealing protein RecO, respectively. Ablation of adnAB or recO individually causes partial impairment of HR, but loss of adnAB and recO in combination abolishes HR. RecO, which can accelerate annealing of single-stranded DNA in vitro, also participates in the SSA pathway. The functions of RecF and RecR, which, in other model bacteria, function in concert with RecO as mediators of RecA loading, have not been examined in mycobacteria. Here, we present a genetic analysis of recF and recR in mycobacterial recombination. We find that RecF, like RecO, participates in the AdnAB-independent arm of the HR pathway and in SSA. In contrast, RecR is required for all HR in mycobacteria and for SSA. The essentiality of RecR as an agent of HR is yet another distinctive feature of mycobacterial DNA repair.IMPORTANCE This study clarifies the molecular requirements for homologous recombination in mycobacteria. Specifically, we demonstrate that RecF and RecR play important roles in both the RecA-dependent homologous recombination and RecA-independent single-strand annealing pathways. Coupled with our previous findings (R. Gupta, M. Ryzhikov, O. Koroleva, M. Unciuleac, S. Shuman, S. Korolev, and M. S. Glickman, Nucleic Acids Res 41:2284-2295, 2013, http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/nar/gks1298), these results revise our view of mycobacterial recombination and place the RecFOR system in a central position in homology-dependent DNA repair.

An 'open' structure of the RecOR complex supports ssDNA binding within the core of the complex

Efficient DNA repair is critical for cell survival and the maintenance of genome integrity. The homologous recombination pathway is responsible for the repair of DNA double-strand breaks within cells. Initiation of this pathway in bacteria can be carried out by either the RecBCD or the RecFOR proteins. An important regulatory player within the RecFOR pathway is the RecOR complex that facilitates RecA loading onto DNA. Here we report new data regarding the assembly of Deinococcus radiodurans RecOR and its interaction with DNA, providing novel mechanistic insight into the mode of action of RecOR in homologous recombination. We present a higher resolution crystal structure of RecOR in an 'open' conformation in which the tetrameric RecR ring flanked by two RecO molecules is accessible for DNA binding. We show using small-angle neutron scattering and mutagenesis studies that DNA binding does indeed occur within the RecR ring. Binding of single-stranded DNA occurs without any major conformational changes of the RecOR complex while structural rearrangements are observed on double-stranded DNA binding. Finally, our molecular dynamics simulations, supported by our biochemical data, provide a detailed picture of the DNA binding motif of RecOR and reveal that single-stranded DNA is sandwiched between the two facing oligonucleotide binding domains of RecO within the RecR ring.

Homologous Recombination-Enzymes and Pathways

Homologous recombination is an ubiquitous process that shapes genomes and repairs DNA damage. The reaction is classically divided into three phases: presynaptic, synaptic, and postsynaptic. In Escherichia coli, the presynaptic phase involves either RecBCD or RecFOR proteins, which act on DNA double-stranded ends and DNA single-stranded gaps, respectively; the central synaptic steps are catalyzed by the ubiquitous DNA-binding protein RecA; and the postsynaptic phase involves either RuvABC or RecG proteins, which catalyze branch-migration and, in the case of RuvABC, the cleavage of Holliday junctions. Here, we review the biochemical properties of these molecular machines and analyze how, in light of these properties, the phenotypes of null mutants allow us to define their biological function(s). The consequences of point mutations on the biochemical properties of recombination enzymes and on cell phenotypes help refine the molecular mechanisms of action and the biological roles of recombination proteins. Given the high level of conservation of key proteins like RecA and the conservation of the principles of action of all recombination proteins, the deep knowledge acquired during decades of studies of homologous recombination in bacteria is the foundation of our present understanding of the processes that govern genome stability and evolution in all living organisms.

RecFOR proteins target RecA protein to a DNA gap with either DNA or RNA at the 5' terminus: implication for repair of stalled replication forks

The repair of single-stranded gaps in duplex DNA by homologous recombination requires the proteins of the RecF pathway. The assembly of RecA protein onto gapped DNA (gDNA) that is complexed with the single-stranded DNA-binding protein is accelerated by the RecF, RecO, and RecR (RecFOR) proteins. Here, we show the RecFOR proteins specifically target RecA protein to gDNA even in the presence of a thousand-fold excess of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). The binding constant of RecF protein, in the presence of the RecOR proteins, to the junction of ssDNA and dsDNA within a gap is 1-2 nm, suggesting that a few RecF molecules in the cell are sufficient to recognize gDNA. We also found that the nucleation of a RecA filament on gDNA in the presence of the RecFOR proteins occurs at a faster rate than filament elongation, resulting in a RecA nucleoprotein filament on ssDNA for 1000-2000 nucleotides downstream (5' → 3') of the junction with duplex DNA. Thus, RecA loading by RecFOR is localized to a region close to a junction. RecFOR proteins also recognize RNA at the 5'-end of an RNA-DNA junction within an ssDNA gap, which is compatible with their role in the repair of lagging strand gaps at stalled replication forks.

The wobble nucleotide-excising anticodon nuclease RloC is governed by the zinc-hook and DNA-dependent ATPase of its Rad50-like region

The conserved bacterial anticodon nuclease (ACNase) RloC and its phage-excluding homolog PrrC comprise respective ABC-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) and ACNase N- and C-domains but differ in three key attributes. First, prrC is always linked to an ACNase silencing, DNA restriction–modification (R–M) locus while rloC rarely features such linkage. Second, RloC excises its substrate’s wobble nucleotide, a lesion expected to impede damage reversal by phage transfer RNA (tRNA) repair enzymes that counteract the nick inflicted by PrrC. Third, a distinct coiled-coil/zinc-hook (CC/ZH) insert likens RloC’s N-region to the universal DNA damage checkpoint/repair protein Rad50. Previous work revealed that ZH mutations activate RloC’s ACNase. Data shown here suggest that RloC has an internal ACNase silencing/activating switch comprising its ZH and DNA-break-responsive ATPase. The existence of this control may explain the lateral transfer of rloC without an external silencer and supports the proposed role of RloC as an antiviral contingency acting when DNA restriction is alleviated under genotoxic stress. We also discuss RloC’s possible evolution from a PrrC-like ancestor.

ATP binding, ATP hydrolysis, and protein dimerization are required for RecF to catalyze an early step in the processing and recovery of replication forks disrupted by DNA damage

In Escherichia coli, the recovery of replication following disruption by UV-induced DNA damage requires the RecF protein and occurs through a process that involves stabilization of replication fork DNA, resection of nascent DNA to allow the offending lesion to be repaired, and reestablishment of a productive replisome on the DNA. RecF forms a homodimer and contains an ATP binding cassette ATPase domain that is conserved among eukaryotic SMC (structural maintenance of chromosome) proteins, including cohesin, condensin, and Rad50. Here, we investigated the functions of RecF dimerization, ATP binding, and ATP hydrolysis in the progressive steps involved in recovering DNA synthesis following disruption by DNA damage. RecF point mutations with altered biochemical properties were constructed in the chromosome. We observed that protein dimerization, ATP binding, and ATP hydrolysis were essential for maintaining and processing the arrested replication fork, as well as for restoring DNA synthesis. In contrast, stabilization of the RecF protein dimer partially protected the DNA at the arrested fork from degradation, although overall processing and recovery remained severely impaired.

RecR-mediated modulation of RecF dimer specificity for single- and double-stranded DNA

RecF pathway proteins play an important role in the restart of stalled replication and DNA repair in prokaryotes. Following DNA damage, RecF, RecR, and RecO initiate homologous recombination (HR) by loading of the RecA recombinase on single-stranded (ss) DNA, protected by ssDNA-binding protein. The specific role of RecF in this process is not well understood. Previous studies have proposed that RecF directs the RecOR complex to boundaries of damaged DNA regions by recognizing single-stranded/double-stranded (ss/ds) DNA junctions. RecF belongs to ABC-type ATPases, which function through an ATP-dependent dimerization. Here, we demonstrate that the RecF of Deinococcus radiodurans interacts with DNA as an ATP-dependent dimer, and that the DNA binding and ATPase activity of RecF depend on both the structure of DNA substrate, and the presence of RecR. We found that RecR interacts as a tetramer with the RecF dimer. RecR increases the RecF affinity to dsDNA without stimulating ATP hydrolysis but destabilizes RecF binding to ssDNA and dimerization, likely due to increasing the ATPase rate. The DNA-dependent binding of RecR to the RecF-DNA complex occurs through specific protein-protein interactions without significant contributions from RecR-DNA interactions. Finally, RecF neither alone nor in complex with RecR preferentially binds to the ss/dsDNA junction. Our data suggest that the specificity of the RecFOR complex toward the boundaries of DNA damaged regions may result from a network of protein-protein and DNA-protein interactions, rather than a simple recognition of the ss/dsDNA junction by RecF.

RecFOR and RecOR as distinct RecA loading pathways

The molecular role of the RecF protein in loading RecA protein onto single-stranded DNA (ssDNA)-binding protein-coated ssDNA has been obscured by the facility with which the RecO and RecR proteins alone perform this function. We now show that RecFOR and RecOR define distinct RecA loading functions that operate optimally in different contexts. RecFOR, but not RecOR, is most effective when RecF(R) is bound near an ssDNA/double-stranded (dsDNA) junction. However, RecF(R) has no enhanced binding affinity for such a junction. RecO and RecR proteins are both required under all conditions in which the RecFOR pathway operates. The RecOR pathway is uniquely distinguished by a required interaction between RecO protein and the ssDNA binding protein C terminus. The RecOR pathway is more efficient for RecA loading onto ssDNA when no proximal dsDNA is available. A merger of new and published results leads to a new model for RecFOR function.

SSB as an organizer/mobilizer of genome maintenance complexes

When duplex DNA is altered in almost any way (replicated, recombined, or repaired), single strands of DNA are usually intermediates, and single-stranded DNA binding (SSB) proteins are present. These proteins have often been described as inert, protective DNA coatings. Continuing research is demonstrating a far more complex role of SSB that includes the organization and/or mobilization of all aspects of DNA metabolism. Escherichia coli SSB is now known to interact with at least 14 other proteins that include key components of the elaborate systems involved in every aspect of DNA metabolism. Most, if not all, of these interactions are mediated by the amphipathic C-terminus of SSB. In this review, we summarize the extent of the eubacterial SSB interaction network, describe the energetics of interactions with SSB, and highlight the roles of SSB in the process of recombination. Similar themes to those highlighted in this review are evident in all biological systems.

RecR forms a ring-like tetramer that encircles dsDNA by forming a complex with RecF

In the RecFOR pathway, the RecF and RecR proteins form a complex that binds to DNA and exerts multiple functions, including directing the loading of RecA onto single-stranded (ss) DNA regions near double-stranded (ds) DNA–ssDNA junctions and preventing it from forming a filament beyond the ssDNA region. However, neither the structure of the RecFR complex nor its DNA-binding mechanism was previously identified. Here, size-exclusion chromatography and small-angle X-ray scattering data indicate that Thermus thermophilus (tt) RecR binds to ttRecF to form a globular structure consisting of four ttRecR and two ttRecF monomers. In addition, a low resolution model shows a cavity in the central part of the complex, suggesting that ttRecR forms a ring-like tetramer inside the ttRecFR complex. Mutant ttRecR proteins lacking the N- or C-terminal interfaces that are required for tetramer formation are unable to form a complex with ttRecF. Furthermore, a ttRecFR complex containing the DNA-binding deficient ttRecR K23E/R27E double mutant, which contains mutations lying inside the ring, exhibits significantly reduced dsDNA binding. Thus, we propose that the ring-like ttRecR tetramer has a key role in tethering the ttRecFR complex onto dsDNA and that the ring structure may function as a clamp protein.

Requirements for ATP binding and hydrolysis in RecA function in Escherichia coli

RecA is essential for recombination, DNA repair and SOS induction in Escherichia coli. ATP hydrolysis is known to be important for RecA's roles in recombination and DNA repair. In vitro reactions modelling SOS induction minimally require ssDNA and non-hydrolyzable ATP analogues. This predicts that ATP hydrolysis will not be required for SOS induction in vivo. The requirement of ATP binding and hydrolysis for SOS induction in vivo is tested here through the study of recA4159 (K72A) and recA2201 (K72R). RecA4159 is thought to have reduced affinity for ATP. RecA2201 binds, but does not hydrolyse ATP. Neither mutant was able to induce SOS expression after UV irradiation. RecA2201, unlike RecA4159, could form filaments on DNA and storage structures as measured with RecA-GFP. RecA2201 was able to form hybrid filaments and storage structures and was either recessive or dominant to RecA(+), depending on the ratio of the two proteins. RecA4159 was unable to enter RecA(+) filaments on DNA or storage structures and was recessive to RecA(+). It is concluded that ATP hydrolysis is essential for SOS induction. It is proposed that ATP binding is essential for storage structure formation and ability to interact with other RecA proteins in a filament.

The characterization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mre11/Rad50/Xrs2 complex reveals that Rad50 negatively regulates Mre11 endonucleolytic but not the exonucleolytic activity

The evolutionarily conserved heterotrimeric Mre11/Rad50/Xrs2 (Nbs1) (MRX/N) complex plays a central role in an array of cellular responses involving DNA damage, telomere length homeostasis, cell-cycle checkpoint control and meiotic recombination. The underlying biochemical functions of MRX/N complex, or each of its individual subunits, at telomeres and the importance of complex formation are poorly understood. Here, we show that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae MRX complex, or its subunits, display an overwhelming preference for G-quadruplex DNA than for telomeric single-stranded or double-stranded DNA implicating the possible existence of this DNA structure in vivo. Although these alternative DNA substrates failed to affect Rad50 ATPase activity, kinetic analyses revealed that interaction of Rad50 with Xrs2 and/or Mre11 led to a twofold increase in the rates of ATP hydrolysis. Significantly, we show that Mre11 displays sequence-specific double-stranded DNA endonuclease activity, and Rad50, but not Xrs2, abrogated endonucleolytic but not the exonucleolytic activity. This repression was alleviated upon ATP hydrolysis by Rad50, suggesting that complex formation between Rad50 and Mre11 might be important for blocking the inappropriate cleavage of genomic DNA. Mre11 alone, or in the presence of ATP, MRX, MR or MX sub-complexes cleaved at the 5' end of an array of G residues in single-stranded DNA, at G quartets in G4 DNA, and at the center of TGTG repeats in duplex DNA. We propose that negative regulation of Mre11 endonuclease activity by Rad50 might be important for native as well as de novo telomere length homeostasis.

Crystal structure and mutational study of RecOR provide insight into its mode of DNA binding

The crystal structure of the complex formed between Deinococcus radiodurans RecR and RecO (drRecOR) has been determined. In accordance with previous biochemical characterisation, the drRecOR complex displays a RecR:RecO molecular ratio of 2:1. The biologically relevant drRecOR entity consists of a heterohexamer in the form of two drRecO molecules positioned on either side of the tetrameric ring of drRecR, with their OB (oligonucleotide/oligosaccharide-binding) domains pointing towards the interior of the ring. Mutagenesis studies validated the protein-protein interactions observed in the crystal structure and allowed mapping of the residues in the drRecOR complex required for DNA binding. Furthermore, the preferred DNA substrate of drRecOR was identified as being 3'-overhanging DNA, as encountered at ssDNA-dsDNA junctions. Together these results suggest a possible mechanism for drRecOR recognition of stalled replication forks.

Regulation of bacterial RecA protein function

The RecA protein is a recombinase functioning in recombinational DNA repair in bacteria. RecA is regulated at many levels. The expression of the recA gene is regulated within the SOS response. The activity of the RecA protein itself is autoregulated by its own C-terminus. RecA is also regulated by the action of other proteins. To date, these include the RecF, RecO, RecR, DinI, RecX, RdgC, PsiB, and UvrD proteins. The SSB protein also indirectly affects RecA function by competing for ssDNA binding sites. The RecO and RecR, and possibly the RecF proteins, all facilitate RecA loading onto SSB-coated ssDNA. The RecX protein blocks RecA filament extension, and may have other effects on RecA activity. The DinI protein stabilizes RecA filaments. The RdgC protein binds to dsDNA and blocks RecA access to dsDNA. The PsiB protein, encoded by F plasmids, is uncharacterized, but may inhibit RecA in some manner. The UvrD helicase removes RecA filaments from RecA. All of these proteins function in a network that determines where and how RecA functions. Additional regulatory proteins may remain to be discovered. The elaborate regulatory pattern is likely to be reprised for RecA homologues in archaeans and eukaryotes.

SSB protein limits RecOR binding onto single-stranded DNA

The RecO and RecR proteins form a complex that promotes the nucleation of RecA protein filaments onto SSB protein-coated single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). However, even when RecO and RecR proteins are provided at optimal concentrations, the loading of RecA protein is surprisingly slow, typically proceeding with a lag of 10 min or more. The rate-limiting step in RecOR-promoted RecA nucleation is the binding of RecOR protein to ssDNA, which is inhibited by SSB protein despite the documented interaction between RecO and SSB. Full activity of RecOR is seen only when RecOR is preincubated with ssDNA prior to the addition of SSB. The slow binding of RecOR to SSB-coated ssDNA involves the C terminus of SSB. When an SSB variant that lacks the C-terminal 8 amino acids is used, the capacity of RecOR to facilitate RecA loading onto the ssDNA is largely abolished. The results are used in an expanded model for RecOR action.

Structural conservation of RecF and Rad50: implications for DNA recognition and RecF function

RecF, together with RecO and RecR, belongs to a ubiquitous group of recombination mediators (RMs) that includes eukaryotic proteins such as Rad52 and BRCA2. RMs help maintain genome stability in the presence of DNA damage by loading RecA-like recombinases and displacing single-stranded DNA-binding proteins. Here, we present the crystal structure of RecF from Deinococcus radiodurans. RecF exhibits a high degree of structural similarity with the head domain of Rad50, but lacks its long coiled-coil region. The structural homology between RecF and Rad50 is extensive, encompassing the ATPase subdomain and the so-called 'Lobe II' subdomain of Rad50. The pronounced structural conservation between bacterial RecF and evolutionarily diverged eukaryotic Rad50 implies a conserved mechanism of DNA binding and recognition of the boundaries of double-stranded DNA regions. The RecF structure, mutagenesis of conserved motifs and ATP-dependent dimerization of RecF are discussed with respect to its role in promoting presynaptic complex formation at DNA damage sites.

Identification of the RecR Toprim domain as the binding site for both RecF and RecO. A role of RecR in RecFOR assembly at double-stranded DNA-single-stranded DNA junctions

The RecR protein forms complexes with RecF or RecO that direct the specific loading of RecA onto gapped DNA. However, the binding sites of RecF and RecO on RecR have yet to be identified. In this study, a Thermus thermophilus RecR dimer model was constructed by NMR analysis and homology modeling. NMR titration analysis suggested that the hairpin region of the helix-hairpin-helix motif in the cavity of the RecR dimer is a binding site for double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and that the acidic cluster region of the Toprim domain is a RecO binding site. Mutations of Glu-84, Asp-88, and Glu-144 residues comprising that acidic cluster were generated. The E144A and E84A mutations decreased the binding affinity for RecO, but the D88A did not. Interestingly, the binding ability to RecF was abolished by E144A, suggesting that the region surrounding the RecR Glu-144 residue could be a binding site not only for RecO but also for RecF. Furthermore, RecR and RecF formed a 4:2 heterohexamer in solution that was unaffected by adding RecO, indicating a preference by RecR for RecF over RecO. The RecFR complex is considered to be involved in the recognition of the dsDNA-ssDNA junction, whereas RecO binds single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and ssDNA-binding protein. Thus, the RecR Toprim domain may contribute to the RecO interaction with RecFR complexes at the dsDNA-ssDNA junction site during recombinational DNA repair mediated by the RecFOR.

The RecF protein antagonizes RecX function via direct interaction

The RecX protein inhibits RecA filament extension, leading to net filament disassembly. The RecF protein physically interacts with the RecX protein and protects RecA from the inhibitory effects of RecX. In vitro, efficient RecA filament formation onto single-stranded DNA binding protein (SSB)-coated circular single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) in the presence of RecX occurs only when all of the RecFOR proteins are present. The RecOR proteins contribute only to RecA filament nucleation onto SSB-coated single-stranded DNA and are unable to counter the inhibitory effects of RecX on RecA filaments. RecF protein uniquely supports substantial RecA filament extension in the presence of RecX. In vivo, RecF protein counters a RecX-mediated inhibition of plasmid recombination. Thus, a significant positive contribution of RecF to RecA filament assembly is to antagonize the effects of the negative modulator RecX, specifically during the extension phase.

Functional similarities between phage lambda Orf and Escherichia coli RecFOR in initiation of genetic exchange

Genetic recombination in bacteriophage lambda relies on DNA end processing by Exo to expose 3'-tailed strands for annealing and exchange by beta protein. Phage lambda encodes an additional recombinase, Orf, which participates in the early stages of recombination by supplying a function equivalent to the Escherichia coli RecFOR complex. These host enzymes assist loading of the RecA strand exchange protein onto ssDNA coated with ssDNA-binding protein. In this study, we purified the Orf protein, analyzed its biochemical properties, and determined its crystal structure at 2.5 angstroms. The homodimeric Orf protein is arranged as a toroid with a shallow U-shaped cleft, lined with basic residues, running perpendicular to the central cavity. Orf binds DNA, favoring single-stranded over duplex and with no obvious preference for gapped, 3'-tailed, or 5'-tailed substrates. An interaction between Orf and ssDNA-binding protein was indicated by far Western analysis. The functional similarities between Orf and RecFOR are discussed in relation to the early steps of recombinational exchange and the interplay between phage and bacterial recombinases.

The recombination genes addAB are not restricted to gram-positive bacteria: genetic analysis of the recombination initiation enzymes RecF and AddAB in Rhizobium etli

Single-strand gaps (SSGs) and double-strand breaks (DSBs) are the major initiation sites for recombination. In bacteria, the SSGs are repaired by RecFOR, while the DSBs are processed by RecBCD in gram-negative bacteria and AddAB in gram-positive bacteria. Unexpectedly, instead of recBCD genes, the addAB genes were found in members of the alpha-proteobacteria group (gram negative). Taking Rhizobium etli as a model, the role of recF and addAB genes in homologous recombination and repair of damaged DNA was evaluated. Inactivation of either recF or addA provoked strong sensitivity to UV radiation and mitomycin C, while an additive effect was observed in the recF-addA mutant. The DSBs generated by nalidixic acid caused low viability only in the addA mutant. The recombination frequency of large and small plasmids was reduced in the recF mutant (24- and 36-fold, respectively), whereas a slight decrease (threefold) in the addA mutant was observed. Moreover, an additive effect (47- and 90-fold, respectively) was observed in the double mutant, but it was not as dramatic as that in a recA mutant. Interestingly, the frequency of deletion and Campbell-type recombination was slightly affected in either single or double mutants. These results suggest that another pathway exists that allows plasmid and Campbell-type recombination in the absence of recF and addA genes.

Ring-shaped architecture of RecR: implications for its role in homologous recombinational DNA repair

RecR, together with RecF and RecO, facilitates RecA loading in the RecF pathway of homologous recombinational DNA repair in procaryotes. The human Rad52 protein is a functional counterpart of RecFOR. We present here the crystal structure of RecR from Deinococcus radiodurans (DR RecR). A monomer of DR RecR has a two-domain structure: the N-terminal domain with a helix-hairpin-helix (HhH) motif and the C-terminal domain with a Cys4 zinc-finger motif, a Toprim domain and a Walker B motif. Four such monomers form a ring-shaped tetramer of 222 symmetry with a central hole of 30-35 angstroms diameter. In the crystal, two tetramers are concatenated, implying that the RecR tetramer is capable of opening and closing. We also show that DR RecR binds to both dsDNA and ssDNA, and that its HhH motif is essential for DNA binding.

RecFOR proteins load RecA protein onto gapped DNA to accelerate DNA strand exchange: a universal step of recombinational repair

Genetic evidence suggests that the RecF, RecO, and RecR (RecFOR) proteins participate in a common step of DNA recombination and repair, yet the biochemical event requiring collaboration of all three proteins is unknown. Here, we show that the concerted action of the RecFOR complex directs the loading of RecA protein specifically onto gapped DNA that is coated with single-stranded DNA binding (SSB) protein, thereby accelerating DNA strand exchange. The RecFOR complex recognizes the junction between the ssDNA and dsDNA regions and requires a base-paired 5' terminus at the junction. Thus, the RecFOR complex is a structure-specific mediator that targets recombinational repair to ssDNA-dsDNA junctions. This reaction reconstitutes the initial steps of recombinational gapped DNA repair and uncovers an event also common to the repair of ssDNA-tailed intermediates of dsDNA-break repair. We propose that the behavior of the RecFOR proteins is mimicked by functional counterparts that exist in all organisms.

Essential bacterial helicases that counteract the toxicity of recombination proteins

PcrA, Rep and UvrD are three closely related bacterial helicases with a DExx signature. PcrA is encoded by Gram-positive bacteria and is essential for cell growth. Rep and UvrD are encoded by Gram-negative bacteria, and mutants lacking both helicases are also not viable. To understand the non-viability of the helicase mutants, we characterized spontaneous extragenic suppressors of a Bacillus subtilis pcrA null mutation. Here we report that one of these suppressors maps in recF and that previously isolated mutations in B.subtilis recF, recL, recO and recR, which belong to the same complementation group, all suppress the lethality of a pcrA mutation. Similarly, recF, recO or recR mutations suppress the lethality of the Escherichia coli rep uvrD double mutant. We conclude that RecFOR proteins are toxic in cells devoid of PcrA in Gram-positive bacteria, or Rep and UvrD in Gram-negative bacteria, and propose that the RecFOR proteins interfere with an essential cellular process, possibly replication, when DExx helicases PcrA, or Rep and UvrD are absent.

The RecOR proteins modulate RecA protein function at 5' ends of single-stranded DNA

The Escherichia coli RecF, RecO and RecR pro teins have previously been implicated in bacterial recombinational DNA repair at DNA gaps. The RecOR-facilitated binding of RecA protein to single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) that is bound by single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB) is much faster if the ssDNA is linear, suggesting that a DNA end (rather than a gap) facilitates binding. In addition, the RecOR complex facilitates RecA protein-mediated D-loop formation at the 5' ends of linear ssDNAs. RecR protein remains associated with the RecA filament and its continued presence is required to prevent filament disassembly. RecF protein competes with RecO protein for RecR protein association and its addition destabilizes RecAOR filaments. An enhanced function of the RecO and RecR proteins can thus be seen in vitro at the 5' ends of linear ssDNA that is not as evident in DNA gaps. This function is countered by the RecF/RecO competition for association with the RecR protein.

RecA protein promotes the regression of stalled replication forks in vitro

Replication forks are halted by many types of DNA damage. At the site of a leading-strand DNA lesion, forks may stall and leave the lesion in a single-strand gap. Fork regression is the first step in several proposed pathways that permit repair without generating a double-strand break. Using model DNA substrates designed to mimic one of the known structures of a fork stalled at a leading-strand lesion, we show here that RecA protein of Escherichia coli will promote a fork regression reaction in vitro. The regression process exhibits an absolute requirement for ATP hydrolysis and is enhanced when dATP replaces ATP. The reaction is not affected by the inclusion of the RecO and R proteins. We present this reaction as one of several potential RecA protein roles in the repair of stalled and/or collapsed replication forks in bacteria.

The SOS response regulates adaptive mutation

Upon starvation some Escherichia coli cells undergo a transient, genome-wide hypermutation (called adaptive mutation) that is recombination-dependent and appears to be a response to a stressful environment. Adaptive mutation may reflect an inducible mechanism that generates genetic variability in times of stress. Previously, however, the regulatory components and signal transduction pathways controlling adaptive mutation were unknown. Here we show that adaptive mutation is regulated by the SOS response, a complex, graded response to DNA damage that includes induction of gene products blocking cell division and promoting mutation, recombination, and DNA repair. We find that SOS-induced levels of proteins other than RecA are needed for adaptive mutation. We report a requirement of RecF for efficient adaptive mutation and provide evidence that the role of RecF in mutation is to allow SOS induction. We also report the discovery of an SOS-controlled inhibitor of adaptive mutation, PsiB. These results indicate that adaptive mutation is a tightly regulated response, controlled both positively and negatively by the SOS system.