DNA TOPOISOMERASES Meaning and
Definition
-
DNA topoisomerases are a group of enzymes that play a crucial role in the structural modification of DNA molecules. These enzymes are responsible for the alteration of the supercoiling and knotting of DNA strands, thereby maintaining the stability and functional integrity of the genetic material.
DNA topoisomerases are classified into two main types: Type I and Type II. Type I topoisomerases are further categorized into subtypes IA and IB based on their mode of action. Type IA enzymes can introduce reversible single-strand breaks in the DNA molecule, remove supercoils, and resolve knots and tangles. Type IB enzymes, on the other hand, can relax DNA supercoils by introducing transient single-strand breaks with covalent attachments to the DNA backbone.
Type II topoisomerases are characterized by an ability to regulate the level of DNA supercoiling. They can introduce reversible double-strand breaks and actively transport one DNA segment through another, allowing for the decatenation of DNA molecules and the separation of entangled chromosomes during DNA replication and mitosis.
The activity of DNA topoisomerases is crucial for various biological processes, such as DNA replication, transcription, recombination, and chromosome condensation. Mutations or dysregulation of topoisomerase genes can lead to genomic instability, genetic diseases, and cancer.
In summary, DNA topoisomerases are enzymes that regulate the topology of DNA by managing DNA supercoiling and preventing tangling of the genetic material. They are vital for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the genome.
Common Misspellings for DNA TOPOISOMERASES
- sna topoisomerases
- xna topoisomerases
- cna topoisomerases
- fna topoisomerases
- rna topoisomerases
- ena topoisomerases
- dba topoisomerases
- dma topoisomerases
- dja topoisomerases
- dha topoisomerases
- dnz topoisomerases
- dns topoisomerases
- dnw topoisomerases
- dnq topoisomerases
- dna ropoisomerases
- dna fopoisomerases
- dna gopoisomerases
- dna yopoisomerases
- dna 6opoisomerases
- dna 5opoisomerases
Etymology of DNA TOPOISOMERASES
The word "DNA topoisomerases" is derived from two main components: "DNA" and "topoisomerases".1. DNA: DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic acid, which is a molecule that contains the genetic instructions used in the development and functioning of all living organisms. The term DNA comes from the combination of "deoxyribose", which is the sugar molecule involved in its structure, and "nucleic acid", referring to its chemical nature as a type of acid.2. Topoisomerases: Topoisomerases are a group of enzymes involved in the manipulation of DNA's structure, specifically its torsion and supercoiling. The term is composed of two parts: "topo-" derived from the Greek word "topo-" meaning "position", and "isomerases" referring to enzymes involved in isomerization, which is the process of altering the structure or arrangement of molecules.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
