A phage protein that binds ΦC31 integrase to switch its directionality
2011
Identifying the Recombination Directionality Factor of φC31
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Khaleel T, Younger E, McEwan AR, Varghese AS, Smith MCM
Primary Institution: Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
Can the φC31 RDF promote excision and inhibit integration of the prophage?
Conclusion
The study identified the φC31 RDF, which promotes excision and inhibits integration through direct interactions with the integrase.
Supporting Evidence
- The φC31 RDF was identified as a 27.5 kDa protein called gp3.
- gp3 stimulates excision and inhibits integration by interacting with the integrase.
- Electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that gp3 and Int form complexes with att sites.
Takeaway
Researchers found a protein that helps a virus cut itself out of DNA, which could help scientists use this virus to insert genes into other organisms.
Methodology
The authors used a two-hybrid assay to test interactions between φC31-encoded proteins and the integrase.
Limitations
The exact stoichiometry of the Int and RDF subunits remains unknown.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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