Hrq1, a Homolog of the Human RecQ4 Helicase, Acts Catalytically and Structurally to Promote Genome Integrity

• DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2013.12.037
• Publication Date: 2014-01-16T19:15:48Z
• Authors: Matthew L. Bochman; Katrin Paeschke; Angela Chan; Virginia A. Zakian
• Keywords: RNA Helicase A

Human RecQ4 (hRecQ4) affects cancer and aging but is difficult to study because it a fusion between helicase an essential replication factor. Budding yeast Hrq1 homologous the disease-linked domain of and, like hRecQ4, robust 3'-5' helicase. Additionally, has unusual property forming heptameric rings. Cells lacking exhibited two DNA damage phenotypes: hypersensitivity interstrand crosslinks (ICLs) telomere addition breaks. Both activities are rare; their coexistence in single protein unprecedented. Resistance ICLs requires activity, suppression does not. also length by noncatalytic mechanism, as well telomerase-independent maintenance. Because binds telomeres vivo, probably them directly. Thus, tumor-suppressing activity could be due role ICL repair and/or de novo addition.