Discovery of DNA Topoisomerase IB in Thaumarchaeota
Author Information
Author(s): Céline Brochier-Armanet, Simonetta Gribaldo, Patrick Forterre
Primary Institution: Université de Provence, Aix-Marseille I, CNRS UPR9043, Laboratoire de Chimie Bactérienne, IFR88, Marseille, France
Hypothesis
Is a DNA topoisomerase IB present in the last common ancestor of Archaea and Eucarya?
Conclusion
The presence of a eukaryotic-like TopoIB in Thaumarchaeota suggests that this enzyme was present in the last common ancestor of Archaea and Eucarya.
Supporting Evidence
- Phylogenetic analyses suggest that TopoIB was present in the last common ancestor of Archaea and Eucarya.
- Topo IB is crucial for DNA replication and transcription in eukaryotes.
- Discovery of Topo IB in Thaumarchaeota extends its presence to all three domains of life.
Takeaway
Scientists found a special enzyme in some ancient microbes that shows these microbes might have had DNA like plants and animals do.
Methodology
Phylogenetic analysis of Topo IB homologues retrieved from various databases.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in phylogenetic analysis methods could affect conclusions.
Limitations
The study does not rule out the possibility of horizontal gene transfer.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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