Publication
Title
The structural basis for dynamic DNA binding and bridging interactions which condense the bacterial centromere
Author
Abstract
The ParB protein forms DNA bridging interactions around parS to condense DNA and earmark the bacterial chromosome for segregation. The molecular mechanism underlying the formation of these ParB networks is unclear. We show here that while the central DNA binding domain is essential for anchoring at parS, this interaction is not required for DNA condensation. Structural analysis of the C-terminal domain reveals a dimer with a lysine-rich surface that binds DNA non-specifically and is essential for DNA condensation in vitro. Mutation of either the dimerisation or the DNA binding interface eliminates ParB-GFP foci formation in vivo. Moreover, the free C-terminal domain can rapidly decondense ParB networks independently of its ability to bind DNA. Our work reveals a dual role for the C-terminal domain of ParB as both a DNA binding and bridging interface, and highlights the dynamic nature of ParB networks in Bacillus subtilis.
Language
English
Source (journal)
eLife
Publication
2017
ISSN
2050-084X
DOI
10.7554/ELIFE.28086
Volume/pages
6 (2017) , 25 p.
Article Reference
e28086
ISI
000418072900001
Medium
E-only publicatie
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
MECHAN-OF-CHROMO: Unfolding the Mechanism of Chromosome Cohesion and Condensation using Single-Molecule Biophysical Approaches
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 08.02.2018
Last edited 09.10.2023
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