From DNA sequence recognition to directional chromosome segregation
Subtitle: Information transfer in the translocase protein SpoIIIE
Contributors: Burton, Briana M.; Schier, Alexander F.; Losick, Richard M.; Leschziner, Andres; Reck-Peterson, Samara
Published: 2014
Language: eng
Description: Faithful chromosome segregation is essential for all living organisms. Bacterial chromosome segregation utilizes highly conserved directional SpoIIIE/FtsK translocases to move large DNA molecules between spatially separated compartments. These translocases employ an accessory DNA-interacting domain (gamma) that dictates the direction of DNA transport by recognizing specific DNA sequences. To date it remains unclear how these translocases use DNA sequence information as a trigger to expend chemical energy (ATP turnover) and thereby power mechanical work (DNA movement). In this thesis, I undertook a mechanistic study of directional DNA movement by SpoIIIE from the Gram-positive model bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Specifically, I was interested in understanding the information transfer within the protein from sequence recognition, to ATP turnover, and ultimately to chromosome translocation. How do DNA sequences trigger directional chromosome movement?
Notes: Keywords: ATPase molecular motors, Bacillus subtilis, chromosome segregation, directional DNA translocation, SpoIIIE/FtsK, sporulation.

Thesis Ph.D. Harvard University 2014