Genome complexity: fixing broken DNA (Introduction)

by David Turell , Wednesday, January 26, 2022, 16:34 (821 days ago) @ David Turell

A vital function demonstrated:

https://thedaily.case.edu/case-western-reserve-university-research-team-identifies-new-...

"In this study, the team discovered 53BP1 has a biological function in mediating the structure of DNA, specifically at a highly compacted region called heterochromatin.

"The researchers found that this new function involves a new form of activity of 53BP1, in which the protein accumulates at the condensed DNA regions and forms small liquid droplets—a process called liquid-liquid phase separation, similar to mixing oil with water for salad dressing.

"The team determined how 53BP1 can form liquid droplets: They found that this process requires the participation of other proteins known to support the structure of those highly condensed DNA. But, in turn, they discovered that 53BP1 actually stabilized the gathering of these proteins at these DNA regions, which is important for keeping the overall function of the DNA.

“'More excitingly, through these comprehensive analyses, we found that this new protective activity of 53BP1 is independent of the widely known role of this protein in repairing DNA damage, indicating a totally new function of 53BP1,” Zhang said. “Our study suggests that, in addition to DSB repair modulation, 53BP1 contributes to the maintenance of genome stability through the formation of these liquid droplets.'”

Comment: this editing system is irreducibly complex and must be designed. An example of an editing system to protect DNA. Distorted DNA results in cancer.