DNA polymerases that propagate the eukaryotic DNA replication fork

Structural insight into Okazaki fragment maturation mediated by PCNA-bound FEN1 and RNaseH2

PCNA is a master coordinator of many DNA-metabolic events. During DNA replication, the maturation of Okazaki fragments involves at least four DNA enzymes, all of which contain PCNA-interacting motifs. However, the temporal relationships and functional modulations between these PCNA-binding proteins are unclear. Here, we developed a strategy to purify endogenous PCNA-containing complexes from native chromatin, and characterized their structures using cryo-EM. Two structurally resolved classes (PCNA-FEN1 and PCNA-FEN1-RNaseH2 complexes) have captured a series of 3D snapshots for the primer-removal steps of Okazaki fragment maturation. These structures show that product release from FEN1 is a rate-liming step. Furthermore, both FEN1 and RNaseH2 undergo continuous conformational changes on PCNA that result in constant fluctuations in the bending angle of substrate DNA at the nick site, implying that these enzymes could regulate each other through conformational modulation of the bound DNA. The structures of the PCNA-FEN1-RNaseH2 complex confirm the toolbelt function of PCNA and suggests a potential unrecognized role of RNaseH2, as a dsDNA binding protein, in promoting the 5'-flap cleaving activity of FEN1.

DNA polymerase δ subunit Pol32 binds histone H3-H4 and couples nucleosome assembly with Okazaki fragment processing

During lagging strand chromatin replication, multiple Okazaki fragments (OFs) require processing and nucleosome assembly, but the mechanisms linking these processes remain unclear. Here, using transmission electron microscopy and rapid degradation of DNA ligase Cdc9, we observed flap structures accumulated on lagging strands, controlled by both Pol δ's strand displacement activity and Fen1's nuclease digestion. The distance between neighboring flap structures exhibits a regular pattern, indicative of matured OF length. While fen1Δ or enhanced strand displacement activities by polymerase δ (Pol δ; pol3exo-) minimally affect inter-flap distance, mutants affecting replication-coupled nucleosome assembly, such as cac1Δ and mcm2-3A, do significantly alter it. Deletion of Pol32, a subunit of DNA Pol δ, significantly increases this distance. Mechanistically, Pol32 binds to histone H3-H4 and is critical for nucleosome assembly on the lagging strand. Together, we propose that Pol32 establishes a connection between nucleosome assembly and the processing of OFs on lagging strands.

A mechanistic model of primer synthesis from catalytic structures of DNA polymerase α-primase

The mechanism by which polymerase α-primase (polα-primase) synthesizes chimeric RNA-DNA primers of defined length and composition, necessary for replication fidelity and genome stability, is unknown. Here, we report cryo-EM structures of Xenopus laevis polα-primase in complex with primed templates representing various stages of DNA synthesis. Our data show how interaction of the primase regulatory subunit with the primer 5' end facilitates handoff of the primer to polα and increases polα processivity, thereby regulating both RNA and DNA composition. The structures detail how flexibility within the heterotetramer enables synthesis across two active sites and provide evidence that termination of DNA synthesis is facilitated by reduction of polα and primase affinities for the varied conformations along the chimeric primer-template duplex. Together, these findings elucidate a critical catalytic step in replication initiation and provide a comprehensive model for primer synthesis by polα-primase.

Tissue damage, antioxidant capacity, transcriptional and metabolic regulation of red drum Sciaenops ocellatus in response to nanoplastics exposure and subsequent recovery

Nanoplastics are recognized as emerging contaminants that can cause severe toxicity to marine fishes. However, limited researches were focusing on the toxic effects of nanoplastics on marine fish, especially the post-exposure resilience. In this study, red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) were exposed to 5 mg/L polystyrene nanoplastics (100 nm, PS-NPs) for a 7-day exposure experiment, and a 14-day recovery experiment that followed. The aim was to evaluate the dynamic alterations in hepatic and branchial tissue damage, hepatic antioxidant capacity, as well as hepatic transcriptional and metabolic regulation in the red drum during exposure and post-exposure to PS-NPs. Histopathological observation found that PS-NPs primarily triggered hepatic lipid droplets and branchial epithelial liftings, a phenomenon persistently discernible up to the 14 days of recovery. Although antioxidant capacity partially recovered during recovery periods, PS-NPs resulted in a sustained reduction in hepatic antioxidant activity, causing oxidative damage throughout the entire exposure and recovery phases, as evidenced by decreased total superoxide dismutase activities and increased malondialdehyde content. At the transcriptional and metabolic level, PS-NPs primarily induced lipid metabolism disorders, DNA damage, biofilm disruption, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In the gene-metabolite correlation interaction network, numerous CcO (cytochrome c oxidase) family genes and lipid metabolites were identified as key regulatory genes and metabolites in detoxification processes. Among them, the red drum possesses one additional CcO6B in comparison to human and zebrafish, which potentially contributes to its enhanced capacity for maintaining a stable and positive regulatory function in detoxification. This study revealed that nanoplastics cause severe biotoxicity to red drum, which may be detrimental to the survival of wild populations and affect the economics of farmed populations.

Polymerase iota plays a key role during translesion synthesis of UV-induced lesions in the absence of polymerase eta

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) variant cells are deficient in the translesion synthesis (TLS) DNA polymerase Polη (eta). This protein contributes to DNA damage tolerance, bypassing unrepaired UV photoproducts and allowing S-phase progression with minimal delay. In the absence of Polη, backup polymerases perform TLS of UV lesions. However, which polymerase plays this role in human cells remains an open question. Here, we investigated the potential role of Polι (iota) in bypassing ultraviolet (UV) induced photoproducts in the absence of Polη, using NER-deficient (XP-C) cells knocked down for Polι and/or Polη genes. Our results indicate that cells lacking either Polι or Polη have increased sensitivity to UVC radiation. The lack of both TLS polymerases led to increased cell death and defects in proliferation and migration. Loss of both polymerases induces a significant replication fork arrest and G1/S-phase blockage, compared to the lack of Polη alone. In conclusion, we propose that Polι acts as a bona fide backup for Polη in the TLS of UV-photoproducts.

Flexibility and Distributive Synthesis Regulate RNA Priming and Handoff in Human DNA Polymerase α-Primase

DNA replication in eukaryotes relies on the synthesis of a ∼30-nucleotide RNA/DNA primer strand through the dual action of the heterotetrameric polymerase α-primase (pol-prim) enzyme. Synthesis of the 7-10-nucleotide RNA primer is regulated by the C-terminal domain of the primase regulatory subunit (PRIM2C) and is followed by intramolecular handoff of the primer to pol α for extension by ∼20 nucleotides of DNA. Here, we provide evidence that RNA primer synthesis is governed by a combination of the high affinity and flexible linkage of the PRIM2C domain and the surprisingly low affinity of the primase catalytic domain (PRIM1) for substrate. Using a combination of small angle X-ray scattering and electron microscopy, we found significant variability in the organization of PRIM2C and PRIM1 in the absence and presence of substrate, and that the population of structures with both PRIM2C and PRIM1 in a configuration aligned for synthesis is low. Crosslinking was used to visualize the orientation of PRIM2C and PRIM1 when engaged by substrate as observed by electron microscopy. Microscale thermophoresis was used to measure substrate affinities for a series of pol-prim constructs, which showed that the PRIM1 catalytic domain does not bind the template or emergent RNA-primed templates with appreciable affinity. Together, these findings support a model of RNA primer synthesis in which generation of the nascent RNA strand and handoff of the RNA-primed template from primase to polymerase α is mediated by the high degree of inter-domain flexibility of pol-prim, the ready dissociation of PRIM1 from its substrate, and the much higher affinity of the POLA1cat domain of polymerase α for full-length RNA-primed templates.

A mechanistic model of primer synthesis from catalytic structures of DNA polymerase α-primase

The mechanism by which polymerase α-primase (polα-primase) synthesizes chimeric RNA-DNA primers of defined length and composition, necessary for replication fidelity and genome stability, is unknown. Here, we report cryo-EM structures of polα-primase in complex with primed templates representing various stages of DNA synthesis. Our data show how interaction of the primase regulatory subunit with the primer 5'-end facilitates handoff of the primer to polα and increases polα processivity, thereby regulating both RNA and DNA composition. The structures detail how flexibility within the heterotetramer enables synthesis across two active sites and provide evidence that termination of DNA synthesis is facilitated by reduction of polα and primase affinities for the varied conformations along the chimeric primer/template duplex. Together, these findings elucidate a critical catalytic step in replication initiation and provide a comprehensive model for primer synthesis by polα-primase.

How Pol α-primase is targeted to replisomes to prime eukaryotic DNA replication

During eukaryotic DNA replication, Pol α-primase generates primers at replication origins to start leading-strand synthesis and every few hundred nucleotides during discontinuous lagging-strand replication. How Pol α-primase is targeted to replication forks to prime DNA synthesis is not fully understood. Here, by determining cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of budding yeast and human replisomes containing Pol α-primase, we reveal a conserved mechanism for the coordination of priming by the replisome. Pol α-primase binds directly to the leading edge of the CMG (CDC45-MCM-GINS) replicative helicase via a complex interaction network. The non-catalytic PRIM2/Pri2 subunit forms two interfaces with CMG that are critical for in vitro DNA replication and yeast cell growth. These interactions position the primase catalytic subunit PRIM1/Pri1 directly above the exit channel for lagging-strand template single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), revealing why priming occurs efficiently only on the lagging-strand template and elucidating a mechanism for Pol α-primase to overcome competition from RPA to initiate primer synthesis.

The DHX9 helicase interacts with human DNA polymerase δ4 and stimulates its activity in D-loop extension synthesis

The extension of the invading strand within a displacement loop (D-loop) is a key step in homology directed repair (HDR) of doubled stranded DNA breaks. The primary goal of these studies was to test the hypotheses that 1) D-loop extension by human DNA polymerase δ4 (Pol δ4) is facilitated by DHX9, a 3' to 5' motor helicase, which acts to unwind the leading edge of the D-loop, and 2) the recruitment of DHX9 is mediated by direct protein-protein interactions between DHX9 and Pol δ4 and/or PCNA. DNA synthesis by Pol δ4 was analyzed in a reconstitution assay by the extension of a 93mer oligonucleotide inserted into a plasmid to form a D-loop. Product formation by Pol δ4 was monitored by incorporation of [α-32P]dNTPs into the 93mer primer followed by denaturing gel electrophoresis. The results showed that DHX9 strongly stimulated Pol δ4 mediated D-loop extension. Direct interactions of DHX9 with PCNA, the p125 and the p12 subunits of Pol δ4 were demonstrated by pull-down assays with purified proteins. These data support the hypothesis that DHX9 helicase is recruited by Pol δ4/PCNA to facilitate D-loop synthesis in HDR, and is a participant in cellular HDR. The involvement of DHX9 in HDR represents an important addition to its multiple cellular roles. Such helicase-polymerase interactions may represent an important aspect of the mechanisms involved in D-loop primer extension synthesis in HDR.

Flexibility and distributive synthesis regulate RNA priming and handoff in human DNA polymerase α-primase

DNA replication in eukaryotes relies on the synthesis of a ~30-nucleotide RNA/DNA primer strand through the dual action of the heterotetrameric polymerase α-primase (pol-prim) enzyme. Synthesis of the 7-10-nucleotide RNA primer is regulated by the C-terminal domain of the primase regulatory subunit (PRIM2C) and is followed by intramolecular handoff of the primer to pol α for extension by ~20 nucleotides of DNA. Here we provide evidence that RNA primer synthesis is governed by a combination of the high affinity and flexible linkage of the PRIM2C domain and the low affinity of the primase catalytic domain (PRIM1) for substrate. Using a combination of small angle X-ray scattering and electron microscopy, we found significant variability in the organization of PRIM2C and PRIM1 in the absence and presence of substrate, and that the population of structures with both PRIM2C and PRIM1 in a configuration aligned for synthesis is low. Crosslinking was used to visualize the orientation of PRIM2C and PRIM1 when engaged by substrate as observed by electron microscopy. Microscale thermophoresis was used to measure substrate affinities for a series of pol-prim constructs, which showed that the PRIM1 catalytic domain does not bind the template or emergent RNA-primed templates with appreciable affinity. Together, these findings support a model of RNA primer synthesis in which generation of the nascent RNA strand and handoff of the RNA-primed template from primase to polymerase α is mediated by the high degree of inter-domain flexibility of pol-prim, the ready dissociation of PRIM1 from its substrate, and the much higher affinity of the POLA1cat domain of polymerase α for full-length RNA-primed templates.

A thermosensitive PCNA allele underlies an ataxia-telangiectasia-like disorder

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is a sliding clamp protein that coordinates DNA replication with various DNA maintenance events that are critical for human health. Recently, a hypomorphic homozygous serine to isoleucine (S228I) substitution in PCNA was described to underlie a rare DNA repair disorder known as PCNA-associated DNA repair disorder (PARD). PARD symptoms range from UV sensitivity, neurodegeneration, telangiectasia, and premature aging. We, and others, previously showed that the S228I variant changes the protein-binding pocket of PCNA to a conformation that impairs interactions with specific partners. Here, we report a second PCNA substitution (C148S) that also causes PARD. Unlike PCNA-S228I, PCNA-C148S has WT-like structure and affinity toward partners. In contrast, both disease-associated variants possess a thermostability defect. Furthermore, patient-derived cells homozygous for the C148S allele exhibit low levels of chromatin-bound PCNA and display temperature-dependent phenotypes. The stability defect of both PARD variants indicates that PCNA levels are likely an important driver of PARD disease. These results significantly advance our understanding of PARD and will likely stimulate additional work focused on clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of this severe disease.

The evolving tale of Pol2 function

DNA replication is complex and highly regulated, and DNA replication errors can lead to human diseases such as cancer. DNA polymerase ε (polε) is a key player in DNA replication and contains a large subunit called POLE, which possesses both a DNA polymerase domain and a 3'-5' exonuclease domain (EXO). Mutations at the EXO domain and other missense mutations on POLE with unknown significance have been detected in a variety of human cancers. Based on cancer genome databases, Meng and colleagues (pp. 74-79) previously identified several missense mutations in POPS (pol2 family-specific catalytic core peripheral subdomain), and mutations at the conserved residues of yeast Pol2 (pol2-REL) showed reduced DNA synthesis and growth. In this issue of Genes & Development, Meng and colleagues (pp. 74-79) found unexpectedly that mutations at the EXO domain rescue the growth defects of pol2-REL. They further discovered that EXO-mediated polymerase backtracking impedes forward movement of the enzyme when POPS is defective, revealing a novel interplay between the EXO domain and POPS of Pol2 for efficient DNA synthesis. Additional molecular insight into this interplay will likely inform the impact of cancer-associated mutations found in both the EXO domain and POPS on tumorigenesis and uncover future novel therapeutic strategies.

Four-Year Disease-Free Remission in a Patient With POLE Mutation-Associated Colorectal Cancer Treated Using Anti-PD-1 Therapy

The stability of the human genome depends upon a delicate balance between replication by high- and low-fidelity DNA polymerases. Aberrant replication by error-prone polymerases or loss of function of high-fidelity polymerases predisposes to genetic instability and, in turn, cancer. DNA polymerase epsilon (Pol ε) is a high-fidelity, processive polymerase that is responsible for the majority of leading strand synthesis, and mutations in Pol ε have been increasingly associated with various human malignancies. The clinical significance of Pol ε mutations, including how and whether they should influence management decisions, remains poorly understood. In this report, we describe a 24-year-old man with an aggressive stage IV high-grade, poorly differentiated colon carcinoma who experienced a dramatic response to single-agent checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy after rapidly progressing on standard chemotherapy. His response was complete and durable and has been maintained for more than 48 months. Genetic testing revealed a P286R mutation in the endonuclease domain of POLE and an elevated tumor mutational burden of 126 mutations per megabase, both of which have been previously associated with response to immunotherapy. Interestingly, tumor staining for PD-L1 was negative. This case study highlights the importance of genetic profiling of both early and late-stage cancers, the clinical significance of POLE mutations, and how the interplay between genetic instability and immune-checkpoint blockade can impact clinical decision-making.

Probing the mechanisms of two exonuclease domain mutators of DNA polymerase ϵ

We report the properties of two mutations in the exonuclease domain of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae DNA polymerase ϵ. One, pol2-Y473F, increases the mutation rate by about 20-fold, similar to the catalytically dead pol2-D290A/E290A mutant. The other, pol2-N378K, is a stronger mutator. Both retain the ability to excise a nucleotide from double-stranded DNA, but with impaired activity. pol2-Y473F degrades DNA poorly, while pol2-N378K degrades single-stranded DNA at an elevated rate relative to double-stranded DNA. These data suggest that pol2-Y473F reduces the capacity of the enzyme to perform catalysis in the exonuclease active site, while pol2-N378K impairs partitioning to the exonuclease active site. Relative to wild-type Pol ϵ, both variants decrease the dNTP concentration required to elicit a switch between proofreading and polymerization by more than an order of magnitude. While neither mutation appears to alter the sequence specificity of polymerization, the N378K mutation stimulates polymerase activity, increasing the probability of incorporation and extension of a mismatch. Considered together, these data indicate that impairing the primer strand transfer pathway required for proofreading increases the probability of common mutations by Pol ϵ, elucidating the association of homologous mutations in human DNA polymerase ϵ with cancer.

DNA polymerase delta Exo domain stabilizes mononucleotide microsatellites in human cells

In prokaryotes and yeasts, DNA polymerase proofreading (PPR) and DNA mismatch repair (MMR) cooperatively counteracts replication errors leading to repeat sequence destabilization (i.e. insertions/deletions of repeat units). However, PPR has not thus far been regarded as a mechanism stabilizing repeat sequences in higher eukaryotic cells. In a human cancer cell line, DLD-1, which carries mutations in both MSH6 and the Exo domain of POLD1, we previously observed that mononucleotide microsatellites were markedly destabilized whereas being stable in the simple MMR-defective backgrounds. In this study, we introduced the Exo domain mutation found in DLD-1 cells into MSH2-null HeLa cell clones, using CRISPR/Cas9 system. In the established Exo-/MMR-mutated HeLa clones, mononucleotide repeat sequences were remarkably destabilized as in DLD-1 cells. In contrast, dinucleotide microsatellites were readily destabilized in the parental MMR-deficient backgrounds, and the instability was not notably increased in the genome-edited HeLa clones. Here, we show an involvement of the Exo domain functions of DNA polymerase delta in mononucleotide repeat stabilization in human cells, which also suggests a possible role division between DNA polymerase and MMR in repeat maintenance in the human genome.

Implementing fluorescence enhancement, quenching, and FRET for investigating flap endonuclease 1 enzymatic reaction at the single-molecule level

Flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) is an important component of the intricate molecular machinery for DNA replication and repair. FEN1 is a structure-specific 5' nuclease that cleaves nascent single-stranded 5' flaps during the maturation of Okazaki fragments. Here, we review our research primarily applying single-molecule fluorescence to resolve important mechanistic aspects of human FEN1 enzymatic reaction. The methodology presented in this review is aimed as a guide for tackling other biomolecular enzymatic reactions by fluorescence enhancement, quenching, and FRET and their combinations. Using these methods, we followed in real-time the structures of the substrate and product and 5' flap cleavage during catalysis. We illustrate that FEN1 actively bends the substrate to verify its features and continues to mold it to induce a protein disorder-to-order transitioning that controls active site assembly. This mechanism suppresses off-target cleavage of non-cognate substrates and promotes their dissociation with an accuracy that was underestimated from bulk assays. We determined that product release in FEN1 after the 5' flap release occurs in two steps; a brief binding to the bent nicked-product followed by longer binding to the unbent nicked-product before dissociation. Based on our cryo-electron microscopy structure of the human lagging strand replicase bound to FEN1, we propose how this two-step product release mechanism may regulate the final steps during the maturation of Okazaki fragments.

Expression of the cancer-associated DNA polymerase ε P286R in fission yeast leads to translesion synthesis polymerase dependent hypermutation and defective DNA replication

Somatic and germline mutations in the proofreading domain of the replicative DNA polymerase ε (POLE-exonuclease domain mutations, POLE-EDMs) are frequently found in colorectal and endometrial cancers and, occasionally, in other tumours. POLE-associated cancers typically display hypermutation, and a unique mutational signature, with a predominance of C > A transversions in the context TCT and C > T transitions in the context TCG. To understand better the contribution of hypermutagenesis to tumour development, we have modelled the most recurrent POLE-EDM (POLE-P286R) in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Whole-genome sequencing analysis revealed that the corresponding pol2-P287R allele also has a strong mutator effect in vivo, with a high frequency of base substitutions and relatively few indel mutations. The mutations are equally distributed across different genomic regions, but in the immediate vicinity there is an asymmetry in AT frequency. The most abundant base-pair changes are TCT > TAT transversions and, in contrast to human mutations, TCG > TTG transitions are not elevated, likely due to the absence of cytosine methylation in fission yeast. The pol2-P287R variant has an increased sensitivity to elevated dNTP levels and DNA damaging agents, and shows reduced viability on depletion of the Pfh1 helicase. In addition, S phase is aberrant and RPA foci are elevated, suggestive of ssDNA or DNA damage, and the pol2-P287R mutation is synthetically lethal with rad3 inactivation, indicative of checkpoint activation. Significantly, deletion of genes encoding some translesion synthesis polymerases, most notably Pol κ, partially suppresses pol2-P287R hypermutation, indicating that polymerase switching contributes to this phenotype.

Interplay between DNA replication stress, chromatin dynamics and DNA-damage response for the maintenance of genome stability

DNA replication stress is a major source of DNA damage, including double-stranded breaks that promote DNA damage response (DDR) signaling. Inefficient repair of such lesions can affect genome integrity. During DNA replication different factors act on chromatin remodeling in a coordinated way. While recent studies have highlighted individual molecular mechanisms of interaction, less is known about the orchestration of chromatin changes under replication stress. In this review we attempt to explore the complex relationship between DNA replication stress, DDR and genome integrity in mammalian cells, taking into account the role of chromatin disposition as an important modulator of DNA repair. Recent data on chromatin restoration and epigenetic re-establishment after DNA replication stress are reviewed.

Exploring the multiple roles of guardian of the genome: P53

Background

Cells have evolved balanced mechanisms to protect themselves by initiating a specific response to a variety of stress. TheTP53gene, encoding P53 protein, is one of the many widely studied genes in human cells owing to its multifaceted functions and complex dynamics. The tumour-suppressing activity of P53 plays a principal role in the cellular response to stress. The majority of the human cancer cells exhibit the inactivation of the P53 pathway. In this review, we discuss the recent advancements in P53 research with particular focus on the role of P53 in DNA damage responses, apoptosis, autophagy, and cellular metabolism. We also discussed important P53-reactivation strategies that can play a crucial role in cancer therapy and the role of P53 in various diseases.

Main body

We used electronic databases like PubMed and Google Scholar for literature search. In response to a variety of cellular stress such as genotoxic stress, ischemic stress, oncogenic expression, P53 acts as a sensor, and suppresses tumour development by promoting cell death or permanent inhibition of cell proliferation. It controls several genes that play a role in the arrest of the cell cycle, cellular senescence, DNA repair system, and apoptosis. P53 plays a crucial role in supporting DNA repair by arresting the cell cycle to purchase time for the repair system to restore genome stability. Apoptosis is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and tumour suppression. P53 can induce apoptosis in a genetically unstable cell by interacting with many pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic factors.

Furthermore, P53 can activate autophagy, which also plays a role in tumour suppression. P53 also regulates many metabolic pathways of glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. Thus under mild metabolic stress, P53 contributes to the cell’s ability to adapt to and survive the stress.

Conclusion

These multiple levels of regulation enable P53 to perform diversified roles in many cell responses. Understanding the complete function of P53 is still a work in progress because of the inherent complexity involved in between P53 and its target proteins. Further research is required to unravel the mystery of this Guardian of the genome “TP53”.

The POLD1R689W variant increases the sensitivity of colorectal cancer cells to ATR and CHK1 inhibitors

Inhibition of the kinase ATR, a central regulator of the DNA damage response, eliminates subsets of cancer cells in certain tumors. As previously shown, this is at least partly attributable to synthetic lethal interactions between ATR and POLD1, the catalytic subunit of the polymerase δ. Various POLD1 variants have been found in colorectal cancer, but their significance as therapeutic targets for ATR pathway inhibition remains unknown. Using CRISPR/Cas9 in the colorectal cancer cell line DLD-1, which harbors four POLD1 variants, we established heterozygous POLD1-knockout clones with exclusive expression of distinct variants to determine the functional relevance of these variants individually by assessing their impact on ATR pathway activation, DNA replication, and cellular sensitivity to inhibition of ATR or its effector kinase CHK1. Of the four variants analyzed, only POLD1^R689W affected POLD1 function, as demonstrated by compensatory ATR pathway activation and impaired DNA replication. Upon treatment with ATR or CHK1 inhibitors, POLD1^R689W strongly decreased cell survival in vitro, which was attributable at least partly to S phase impairment and apoptosis. Similarly, treatment with the ATR inhibitor AZD6738 inhibited growth of murine xenograft tumors, harboring the POLD1^R689W variant, in vivo. Our POLD1-knockout model thus complements algorithm-based models to predict the pathogenicity of tumor-specific variants of unknown significance and illustrates a novel and potentially clinically relevant therapeutic approach using ATR/CHK1 inhibitors in POLD1-deficient tumors.

Mismatch repair and DNA polymerase δ proofreading prevent catastrophic accumulation of leading strand errors in cells expressing a cancer-associated DNA polymerase ϵ variant

Substitutions in the exonuclease domain of DNA polymerase ϵ cause ultramutated human tumors. Yeast and mouse mimics of the most common variant, P286R, produce mutator effects far exceeding the effect of Polϵ exonuclease deficiency. Yeast Polϵ-P301R has increased DNA polymerase activity, which could underlie its high mutagenicity. We aimed to understand the impact of this increased activity on the strand-specific role of Polϵ in DNA replication and the action of extrinsic correction systems that remove Polϵ errors. Using mutagenesis reporters spanning a well-defined replicon, we show that both exonuclease-deficient Polϵ (Polϵ-exo⁻) and Polϵ-P301R generate mutations in a strictly strand-specific manner, yet Polϵ-P301R is at least ten times more mutagenic than Polϵ-exo⁻ at each location analyzed. Thus, the cancer variant remains a dedicated leading-strand polymerase with markedly low accuracy. We further show that P301R substitution is lethal in strains lacking Polδ proofreading or mismatch repair (MMR). Heterozygosity for pol2-P301R is compatible with either defect but causes strong synergistic increases in the mutation rate, indicating that Polϵ-P301R errors are corrected by Polδ proofreading and MMR. These data reveal the unexpected ease with which polymerase exchange occurs in vivo, allowing Polδ exonuclease to prevent catastrophic accumulation of Polϵ-P301R-generated errors on the leading strand.

Plasmodium falciparum replication factor C subunit 1 is involved in genotoxic stress response

About half the world's population is at risk of malaria, with Plasmodium falciparum malaria being responsible for the most malaria related deaths globally. Antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine and artemisinin are directed towards the proliferating intra-erythrocytic stages of the parasite, which is responsible for all the clinical symptoms of the disease. These antimalarial drugs have been reported to function via multiple pathways, one of which induces DNA damage via the generation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species. An urgent need to understand the mechanistic details of drug response and resistance is highlighted by the decreasing clinical efficacy of the front line drug, Artemisinin. The replication factor C subunit 1 is an important component of the DNA replication machinery and DNA damage response mechanism. Here we show the translocation of PfRFC1 from an intranuclear localisation to the nuclear periphery, indicating an orchestrated progression of distinct patterns of replication in the developing parasites. PfRFC1 responds to genotoxic stress via elevated protein levels in soluble and chromatin bound fractions. Reduction of PfRFC1 protein levels upon treatment with antimalarials suggests an interplay of replication, apoptosis and DNA repair pathways leading to cell death. Additionally, mislocalisation of the endogenously tagged protein confirmed its essential role in parasites' replication and DNA repair. This study provides key insights into DNA replication, DNA damage response and cell death in P. falciparum.

POLE and POLD1 pathogenic variants in the proofreading domain in papillary thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is the most frequent endocrine cancer with an increasing incidence rate worldwide and is the second most common malignancy among females in Saudi Arabia. Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common subtype. Germline pathogenic variants in the proofreading domain of the POLE and POLD1 genes predispose to several types of cancers. However, the role of pathogenic variants of these two genes in PTC remains unknown. Capture sequencing, Sanger sequencing and immunohistochemistry were performed on 300 PTC cases from the Middle Eastern region. One germline pathogenic variant each of POLE (1/300, 0.33%) and POLD1 (1/300, 0.33%) genes was identified. Low expression of POLD1 was detected in 46.5% (133/286) of cases and was significantly associated with the follicular variant of PTC (P = 0.0006), distant metastasis (P = 0.0033) and stage IV tumours (P = 0.0081). However, no somatic pathogenic variant was detected in POLE gene. Furthermore, low expression of POLE was noted in 61.7% (175/284) of cases with no significant clinicopathological associations. Our study shows that pathogenic variant in the POLE and POLD1 proofreading domain is a cause of PTC and low expression of POLD1 is associated with poor prognostic markers in the Middle Eastern population. Further studies from different geographic populations are needed to determine the frequency and spectrum of proofreading domain pathogenic variants in POLE and POLD1 genes and in PTC from different ethnicities.

CDK-Independent and PCNA-Dependent Functions of p21 in DNA Replication

p21^Waf/CIP1 is a small unstructured protein that binds and inactivates cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). To this end, p21 levels increase following the activation of the p53 tumor suppressor. CDK inhibition by p21 triggers cell-cycle arrest in the G1 and G2 phases of the cell cycle. In the absence of exogenous insults causing replication stress, only residual p21 levels are prevalent that are insufficient to inhibit CDKs. However, research from different laboratories has demonstrated that these residual p21 levels in the S phase control DNA replication speed and origin firing to preserve genomic stability. Such an S-phase function of p21 depends fully on its ability to displace partners from chromatin-bound proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Vice versa, PCNA also regulates p21 by preventing its upregulation in the S phase, even in the context of robust p21 induction by irradiation. Such a tight regulation of p21 in the S phase unveils the potential that CDK-independent functions of p21 may have for the improvement of cancer treatments.

Quaternary structural diversity in eukaryotic DNA polymerases: monomeric to multimeric form

Sixteen eukaryotic DNA polymerases have been identified and studied so far. Based on the sequence similarity of the catalytic subunits of DNA polymerases, these have been classified into four A, B, X and Y families except PrimPol, which belongs to the AEP family. The quaternary structure of these polymerases also varies depending upon whether they are composed of one or more subunits. Therefore, in this review, we used a quaternary structure-based classification approach to group DNA polymerases as either monomeric or multimeric and highlighted functional significance of their accessory subunits. Additionally, we have briefly summarized various DNA polymerase discoveries from a historical perspective, emphasized unique catalytic mechanism of each DNA polymerase and highlighted recent advances in understanding their cellular functions.

Cell cycle progression is disrupted in murine MPS VII growth plate leading to reduced chondrocyte proliferation and transition to hypertrophy

Endochondral bone growth is abnormal in 6 of the 11 types of mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) disorders; resulting in short stature, reduced size of the thoracic cavity and compromised manual dexterity. Current therapies for MPS have had a limited effect on bone growth and to improve these therapies or develop adjunct approaches requires an understanding of the underlying basis of abnormal bone growth in MPS. The MPS VII mouse model replicates the reduction in long bone and vertebral length observed in human MPS. Using this model we have shown that the growth plate is elongated but contains fewer chondrocytes in the proliferative and hypertrophic zones. Endochondral bone growth is in part regulated by entry and exit from the cell cycle by growth plate chondrocytes. More MPS VII chondrocytes were positive for Ki67, a marker for active phases of the cell cycle, suggesting that more MPS VII chondrocytes were in the cell cycle. The number of cells positive for phosphorylated histone H3 was significantly reduced in MPS VII chondrocytes, suggesting fewer MPS VII chondrocytes progressed to mitotic division. While MPS VII HZ chondrocytes continued to express cyclin D1 and more cells were positive for E2F1 and phos pRb than normal, fewer MPS VII HZ chondrocytes were positive for p57^kip2 a marker of terminal differentiation, suggesting fewer MPS VII chondrocytes were able to exit the cell cycle. In addition, multiple markers typical of PZ to HZ transition were not downregulated in MPS VII, in particular Sox9, Pthrpr and Wnt5a. These findings are consistent with MPS VII growth plates elongating at a slower rate than normal due to a delay in progression through the cell cycle, in particular the transition between G1 and S phases, leading to both reduced cell division and transition to the hypertrophic phenotype.

POLD1 variants leading to reduced polymerase activity can cause hearing loss without syndromic features

DNA polymerase δ, whose catalytic subunit is encoded by POLD1, is responsible for synthesizing the lagging strand of DNA. Single heterozygous POLD1 mutations in domains with polymerase and exonuclease activities have been reported to cause syndromic deafness as a part of multisystem metabolic disorder or predisposition to cancer. However, the phenotypes of diverse combinations of POLD1 genotypes have not been elucidated in humans. We found that five members of a multiplex family segregating autosomal recessive nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NS-SNHL) have revealed novel compound heterozygous POLD1 variants (p.Gly1100Arg and a presumptive null function variant, p.Ser197Hisfs*54). The recombinant p.Gly1100Arg polymerase δ showed a reduced polymerase activity by 30-40%, but exhibited normal exonuclease activity. The polymerase activity in cell extracts from the affected subject carrying the two POLD1 mutant alleles was about 33% of normal controls. We suggest that significantly decreased polymerase δ activity, but not a complete absence, with normal exonuclease activity could lead to NS-SNHL.

The PCNA interaction motifs revisited: thinking outside the PIP-box

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is a cellular hub in DNA metabolism and a potential drug target. Its binding partners carry a short linear motif (SLiM) known as the PCNA-interacting protein-box (PIP-box), but sequence-divergent motifs have been reported to bind to the same binding pocket. To investigate how PCNA accommodates motif diversity, we assembled a set of 77 experimentally confirmed PCNA-binding proteins and analyzed features underlying their binding affinity. Combining NMR spectroscopy, affinity measurements and computational analyses, we corroborate that most PCNA-binding motifs reside in intrinsically disordered regions, that structure preformation is unrelated to affinity, and that the sequence-patterns that encode binding affinity extend substantially beyond the boundaries of the PIP-box. Our systematic multidisciplinary approach expands current views on PCNA interactions and reveals that the PIP-box affinity can be modulated over four orders of magnitude by positive charges in the flanking regions. Including the flanking regions as part of the motif is expected to have broad implications, particularly for interpretation of disease-causing mutations and drug-design, targeting DNA-replication and -repair.

Plant DNA Polymerases

Maintenance of genome integrity is a key process in all organisms. DNA polymerases (Pols) are central players in this process as they are in charge of the faithful reproduction of the genetic information, as well as of DNA repair. Interestingly, all eukaryotes possess a large repertoire of polymerases. Three protein complexes, DNA Pol α, δ, and ε, are in charge of nuclear DNA replication. These enzymes have the fidelity and processivity required to replicate long DNA sequences, but DNA lesions can block their progression. Consequently, eukaryotic genomes also encode a variable number of specialized polymerases (between five and 16 depending on the organism) that are involved in the replication of damaged DNA, DNA repair, and organellar DNA replication. This diversity of enzymes likely stems from their ability to bypass specific types of lesions. In the past 10–15 years, our knowledge regarding plant DNA polymerases dramatically increased. In this review, we discuss these recent findings and compare acquired knowledge in plants to data obtained in other eukaryotes. We also discuss the emerging links between genome and epigenome replication.

Two forms of human DNA polymerase δ: Who does what and why?

DNA polymerase δ (Pol δ) plays a central role in lagging strand DNA synthesis in eukaryotic cells, as well as an important role in DNA repair processes. Human Pol δ4 is a heterotetramer of four subunits, the smallest of which is p12. Pol δ3 is a trimeric form that is generated in vivo by the degradation of the p12 subunit in response to DNA damage, and during entry into S-phase. The biochemical properties of the two forms of Pol δ, as well as the changes in their distribution during the cell cycle, are reviewed from the perspective of understanding their respective cellular functions. Biochemical and cellular studies support a role for Pol δ3 in gap filling during DNA repair, and in Okazaki fragment synthesis during DNA replication. Recent studies of cells in which p12 expression is ablated, and are therefore null for Pol δ4, show that Pol δ4 is not required for cell viability. These cells have a defect in homologous recombination, revealing a specific role for Pol δ4 that cannot be performed by Pol δ3. Pol δ4 activity is required for D-loop displacement synthesis in HR. The reasons why Pol δ4 but not Pol δ3 can perform this function are discussed, as well as the question of whether helicase action is needed for efficient D-loop displacement synthesis. Pol δ4 is largely present in the G1 and G2/M phases of the cell cycle and is low in S phase. This is discussed in relation to the availability of Pol δ4 as an additional layer of regulation for HR activity during cell cycle progression.

Redox Chemistry in the Genome: Emergence of the [4Fe4S] Cofactor in Repair and Replication

Many DNA-processing enzymes have been shown to contain a [4Fe4S] cluster, a common redox cofactor in biology. Using DNA electrochemistry, we find that binding of the DNA polyanion promotes a negative shift in [4Fe4S] cluster potential, which corresponds thermodynamically to a ∼500-fold increase in DNA-binding affinity for the oxidized [4Fe4S]3+ cluster versus the reduced [4Fe4S]2+ cluster. This redox switch can be activated from a distance using DNA charge transport (DNA CT) chemistry. DNA-processing proteins containing the [4Fe4S] cluster are enumerated, with possible roles for the redox switch highlighted. A model is described where repair proteins may signal one another using DNA-mediated charge transport as a first step in their search for lesions. The redox switch in eukaryotic DNA primases appears to regulate polymerase handoff, and in DNA polymerase δ, the redox switch provides a means to modulate replication in response to oxidative stress. We thus describe redox signaling interactions of DNA-processing [4Fe4S] enzymes, as well as the most interesting potential players to consider in delineating new DNA-mediated redox signaling networks.

EZH2 promotes DNA replication by stabilizing interaction of POLδ and PCNA via methylation-mediated PCNA trimerization

Background

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), a ring-shaped homotrimer complex, promotes DNA replication via binding to DNA polymerase. Trimerized PCNA is critical for DNA replication. Enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2), which primarily acts as a histone methyltransferase, is essential for proliferation. However, how EZH2 promotes proliferation by controlling DNA replication through PCNA remains elusive.

Results

Here, we showed that low EZH2 levels repressed the proliferation of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). The EZH2 protein level was dramatically upregulated in hDPCs at S phase in the absence of H3K27 trimethylation. Molecularly, EZH2 interacted with PCNA via the PIP box and dimethylated PCNA at lysine 110. Dimethylation of PCNA is essential for stabilization of the PCNA trimer and the binding of DNA polymerase δ to PCNA.

Conclusions

Our data reveal the direct interaction between PCNA and EZH2 and a novel mechanism by which EZH2 orchestrates genome duplication.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13072-018-0213-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Role of MCM2-7 protein phosphorylation in human cancer cells

A heterohexameric complex composed of minichromosome maintenance protein 2–7 (MCM2–7), which acts as a key replicative enzyme in eukaryotes, is crucial for initiating DNA synthesis only once per cell cycle. The MCM complex remains inactive through the G1 phase, until the S phase, when it is activated to initiate replication. During the transition from the G1 to S phase, the MCM undergoes multisite phosphorylation, an important change that promotes subsequent assembly of other replisome members. Phosphorylation is crucial for the regulation of MCM activity and function. MCMs can be phosphorylated by multiple kinases and these phosphorylation events are involved not only in DNA replication but also cell cycle progression and checkpoint response. Dysfunctional phosphorylation of MCMs appears to correlate with the occurrence and development of cancers. In this review, we summarize the currently available data regarding the regulatory mechanisms and functional consequences of MCM phosphorylation and seek the probability that protein kinase inhibitor can be used therapeutically to target MCM phosphorylation in cancer.

Structural and functional annotation of hypothetical proteins of human adenovirus: prioritizing the novel drug targets

OBJECTIVE

Human adenoviruses are small double stranded DNA viruses that provoke vast array of human diseases. Next generation sequencing techniques increase genomic data of HAdV rapidly, which increase their serotypes. The complete genome sequence of human adenovirus shows that it contains large amount of proteins with unknown cellular or biochemical function, known as hypothetical proteins. Hence, it is indispensable to functionally and structurally annotate these proteins to get better understanding of the novel drug targets. The purpose was the characterization of 38 randomly retrieved hypothetical proteins through determination of their physiochemical properties, subcellular localization, function, structure and ligand binding sites using various sequence and structure based bioinformatics tools.

RESULTS

Function of six hypothetical proteins P03269, P03261, P03263, Q83127, Q1L4D7 and I6LEV1 were predicted confidently and then used further for structure analysis. We found that these proteins may act as DNA terminal protein, DNA polymerase, DNA binding protein, adenovirus E3 region protein CR1 and adenoviral protein L1. Functional and structural annotation leading to detection of binding sites by means of docking analysis can indicate potential target for therapeutics to defeat adenoviral infection.

Inhibiting DNA Polymerases as a Therapeutic Intervention against Cancer

Inhibiting DNA synthesis is an important therapeutic strategy that is widely used to treat a number of hyperproliferative diseases including viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. This chapter describes two major categories of therapeutic agents used to inhibit DNA synthesis. The first category includes purine and pyrmidine nucleoside analogs that directly inhibit DNA polymerase activity. The second category includes DNA damaging agents including cisplatin and chlorambucil that modify the composition and structure of the nucleic acid substrate to indirectly inhibit DNA synthesis. Special emphasis is placed on describing the molecular mechanisms of these inhibitory effects against chromosomal and mitochondrial DNA polymerases. Discussions are also provided on the mechanisms associated with resistance to these therapeutic agents. A primary focus is toward understanding the roles of specialized DNA polymerases that by-pass DNA lesions produced by DNA damaging agents. Finally, a section is provided that describes emerging areas in developing new therapeutic strategies targeting specialized DNA polymerases.

The [4Fe4S] cluster of human DNA primase functions as a redox switch using DNA charge transport

DNA charge transport chemistry offers a means of long-range, rapid redox signaling. We demonstrate that the [4Fe4S] cluster in human DNA primase can make use of this chemistry to coordinate the first steps of DNA synthesis. Using DNA electrochemistry, we found that a change in oxidation state of the [4Fe4S] cluster acts as a switch for DNA binding. Single-atom mutations that inhibit this charge transfer hinder primase initiation without affecting primase structure or polymerization. Generating a single base mismatch in the growing primer duplex, which attenuates DNA charge transport, inhibits primer truncation. Thus, redox signaling by [4Fe4S] clusters using DNA charge transport regulates primase binding to DNA and illustrates chemistry that may efficiently drive substrate handoff between polymerases during DNA replication.

Regulation and Modulation of Human DNA Polymerase δ Activity and Function

This review focuses on the regulation and modulation of human DNA polymerase δ (Pol δ). The emphasis is on the mechanisms that regulate the activity and properties of Pol δ in DNA repair and replication. The areas covered are the degradation of the p12 subunit of Pol δ, which converts it from a heterotetramer (Pol δ4) to a heterotrimer (Pol δ3), in response to DNA damage and also during the cell cycle. The biochemical mechanisms that lead to degradation of p12 are reviewed, as well as the properties of Pol δ4 and Pol δ3 that provide insights into their functions in DNA replication and repair. The second focus of the review involves the functions of two Pol δ binding proteins, polymerase delta interaction protein 46 (PDIP46) and polymerase delta interaction protein 38 (PDIP38), both of which are multi-functional proteins. PDIP46 is a novel activator of Pol δ4, and the impact of this function is discussed in relation to its potential roles in DNA replication. Several new models for the roles of Pol δ3 and Pol δ4 in leading and lagging strand DNA synthesis that integrate a role for PDIP46 are presented. PDIP38 has multiple cellular localizations including the mitochondria, the spliceosomes and the nucleus. It has been implicated in a number of cellular functions, including the regulation of specialized DNA polymerases, mitosis, the DNA damage response, mouse double minute 2 homolog (Mdm2) alternative splicing and the regulation of the NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4).

Reconstitution of a eukaryotic replisome reveals the mechanism of asymmetric distribution of DNA polymerases

Eukaryotes require 3 DNA polymerases for normal replisome operations, DNA polymerases (Pol) α, delta and epsilon. Recent biochemical and structural studies support the asymmetric use of these polymerases on the leading and lagging strands. Pol epsilon interacts with the 11-subunit CMG helicase, forming a 15-protein leading strand complex that acts processively in leading strand synthesis in vitro, but Pol epsilon is inactive on the lagging strand. The opposite results are observed for Pol delta with CMG. Pol delta is highly active on the lagging strand in vitro, but has only feeble activity with CMG on the leading strand. Pol α also functions with CMG to prime both strands, and is even capable of extending both strands with CMG present. However, extensive DNA synthesis by Pol α is sharply curtailed by the presence of either Pol epsilon or Pol delta, which limits the role of the low fidelity Pol α to the initial priming of synthesis.

Identification and characterization of a heterotrimeric archaeal DNA polymerase holoenzyme

Since their initial characterization over 30 years ago, it has been believed that the archaeal B-family DNA polymerases are single-subunit enzymes. This contrasts with the multi-subunit B-family replicative polymerases of eukaryotes. Here we reveal that the highly studied PolB1 from Sulfolobus solfataricus exists as a heterotrimeric complex in cell extracts. Two small subunits, PBP1 and PBP2, associate with distinct surfaces of the larger catalytic subunit and influence the enzymatic properties of the DNA polymerase. Thus, multi-subunit replicative DNA polymerase holoenzymes are present in all three domains of life. We reveal the architecture of the assembly by a combination of cross-linking coupled with mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography and single-particle electron microscopy. The small subunits stabilize the holoenzyme assembly and the acidic tail of one small subunit mitigates the ability of the enzyme to perform strand-displacement synthesis, with important implications for lagging strand DNA synthesis.

The current model for B-family DNA polymerases in archaea is one of single-subunit enzymes in contrast to the multi-subunit complexes in eukaryotes. Here the authors show that PolB1 from Sulfolobus solfataricus exists as a heterotrimeric complex in cell extracts.

Non-Canonical Replication Initiation: You're Fired!

The division of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells produces two cells that inherit a perfect copy of the genetic material originally derived from the mother cell. The initiation of canonical DNA replication must be coordinated to the cell cycle to ensure the accuracy of genome duplication. Controlled replication initiation depends on a complex interplay of cis-acting DNA sequences, the so-called origins of replication (ori), with trans-acting factors involved in the onset of DNA synthesis. The interplay of cis-acting elements and trans-acting factors ensures that cells initiate replication at sequence-specific sites only once, and in a timely order, to avoid chromosomal endoreplication. However, chromosome breakage and excessive RNA:DNA hybrid formation can cause break-induced (BIR) or transcription-initiated replication (TIR), respectively. These non-canonical replication events are expected to affect eukaryotic genome function and maintenance, and could be important for genome evolution and disease development. In this review, we describe the difference between canonical and non-canonical DNA replication, and focus on mechanistic differences and common features between BIR and TIR. Finally, we discuss open issues on the factors and molecular mechanisms involved in TIR.

PDIP46 (DNA polymerase δ interacting protein 46) is an activating factor for human DNA polymerase δ

PDIP46 (SKAR, POLDIP3) was discovered through its interaction with the p50 subunit of human DNA polymerase δ (Pol δ). Its functions in DNA replication are unknown. PDIP46 associates with Pol δ in cell extracts both by immunochemical and protein separation methods, as well as by ChIP analyses. PDIP46 also interacts with PCNA via multiple copies of a novel PCNA binding motif, the APIMs (AlkB homologue-2 PCNA-Interacting Motif). Sites for both p50 and PCNA binding were mapped to the N-terminal region containing the APIMs. Functional assays for the effects of PDIP46 on Pol δ activity on singly primed ssM13 DNA templates revealed that it is a novel and potent activator of Pol δ. The effects of PDIP46 on Pol δ in primer extension, strand displacement and synthesis through simple hairpin structures reveal a mechanism where PDIP46 facilitates Pol δ4 synthesis through regions of secondary structure on complex templates. In addition, evidence was obtained that PDIP46 is also capable of exerting its effects by a direct interaction with Pol δ, independent of PCNA. Mutation of the Pol δ and PCNA binding region resulted in a loss of PDIP46 functions. These studies support the view that PDIP46 is a novel accessory protein for Pol δ that is involved in cellular DNA replication. This raises the possibility that altered expression of PDIP46 or its mutation may affect Pol δ functions in vivo, and thereby be a nexus for altered genomic stability.

Targeting the Translesion Synthesis Pathway for the Development of Anti-Cancer Chemotherapeutics

Human cells possess tightly controlled mechanisms to rescue DNA replication following DNA damage caused by environmental and endogenous carcinogens using a set of low-fidelity translesion synthesis (TLS) DNA polymerases. These polymerases can copy over replication blocking DNA lesions while temporarily leaving them unrepaired, preventing cell death at the expense of increasing mutation rates and contributing to the onset and progression of cancer. In addition, TLS has been implicated as a major cellular mechanism promoting acquired resistance to genotoxic chemotherapy. Owing to its central role in mutagenesis and cell survival after DNA damage, inhibition of the TLS pathway has emerged as a potential target for the development of anticancer agents. This review will recap our current understanding of the structure and regulation of DNA polymerase complexes that mediate TLS and describe how this knowledge is beginning to translate into the development of small molecule TLS inhibitors.

Archaeoglobus Fulgidus DNA Polymerase D: A Zinc-Binding Protein Inhibited by Hypoxanthine and Uracil

Archaeal family-D DNA polymerases (Pol-D) comprise a small (DP1) proofreading subunit and a large (DP2) polymerase subunit. Pol-D is one of the least studied polymerase families, and this publication investigates the enzyme from Archaeoglobus fulgidus (Afu Pol-D). The C-terminal region of DP2 contains two conserved cysteine clusters, and their roles are investigated using site-directed mutagenesis. The cluster nearest the C terminus is essential for polymerase activity, and the cysteines are shown to serve as ligands for a single, critical Zn(2+) ion. The cysteines farthest from the C terminal were not required for activity, and a role for these amino acids has yet to be defined. Additionally, it is shown that Afu Pol-D activity is slowed by the template strand hypoxanthine, extending previous results that demonstrated inhibition by uracil. Hypoxanthine was a weaker inhibitor than uracil. Investigations with isolated DP2, which has a measurable polymerase activity, localised the deaminated base binding site to this subunit. Uracil and hypoxanthine slowed Afu Pol-D "in trans", that is, a copied DNA strand could be inhibited by a deaminated base in the alternate strand of a replication fork. The error rate of Afu Pol-D, measured in vitro, was 0.24×10(-5), typical for a polymerase that has been proposed to carry out genome replication in the Archaea. Deleting the 3'-5' proofreading exonuclease activity reduced fidelity twofold. The results presented in this publication considerably increase our knowledge of Pol-D.

Role of the Polymerase ϵ sub-unit DPB2 in DNA replication, cell cycle regulation and DNA damage response in Arabidopsis

Faithful DNA replication maintains genome stability in dividing cells and from one generation to the next. This is particularly important in plants because the whole plant body and reproductive cells originate from meristematic cells that retain their proliferative capacity throughout the life cycle of the organism. DNA replication involves large sets of proteins whose activity is strictly regulated, and is tightly linked to the DNA damage response to detect and respond to replication errors or defects. Central to this interconnection is the replicative polymerase DNA Polymerase ϵ (Pol ϵ) which participates in DNA replication per se, as well as replication stress response in animals and in yeast. Surprisingly, its function has to date been little explored in plants, and notably its relationship with DNA Damage Response (DDR) has not been investigated. Here, we have studied the role of the largest regulatory sub-unit of Arabidopsis DNA Pol ϵ: DPB2, using an over-expression strategy. We demonstrate that excess accumulation of the protein impairs DNA replication and causes endogenous DNA stress. Furthermore, we show that Pol ϵ dysfunction has contrasting outcomes in vegetative and reproductive cells and leads to the activation of distinct DDR pathways in the two cell types.

Divalent ions attenuate DNA synthesis by human DNA polymerase α by changing the structure of the template/primer or by perturbing the polymerase reaction

DNA polymerases (pols) are sophisticated protein machines operating in the replication, repair and recombination of genetic material in the complex environment of the cell. DNA pol reactions require at least two divalent metal ions for the phosphodiester bond formation. We explore two understudied roles of metals in pol transactions with emphasis on polα, a crucial enzyme in the initiation of DNA synthesis. We present evidence that the combination of many factors, including the structure of the template/primer, the identity of the metal, the metal turnover in the pol active site, and the influence of the concentration of nucleoside triphosphates, affect DNA pol synthesis. On the poly-dT70 template, the increase of Mg(2+) concentration within the range typically used for pol reactions led to the severe loss of the ability of pol to extend DNA primers and led to a decline in DNA product sizes when extending RNA primers, simulating the effect of "counting" of the number of nucleotides in nascent primers by polα. We suggest that a high Mg(2+) concentration promotes the dynamic formation of unconventional DNA structure(s), thus limiting the apparent processivity of the enzyme. Next, we found that Zn(2+) supported robust polα reactions when the concentration of nucleotides was above the concentration of ions; however, there was only one nucleotide incorporation by the Klenow fragment of DNA pol I. Zn(2+) drastically inhibited polα, but had no effect on Klenow, when Mg(2+) was also present. It is possible that Zn(2+) perturbs metal-mediated transactions in pol active site, for example affecting the step of pyrophosphate removal at the end of each pol cycle necessary for continuation of polymerization.