Telomeres, crucial for chromosome stability, are nucleoprotein complexes at chromosome ends. Telomeric DNA, rich in guanine tandem repeats, is synthesized by telomerase, aiding in specialized DNA structures. RAP1, a key DNA-binding protein, regulates telomere length and transcriptional control. Recent research links telomere shortening to aging and cancer. RAP1’s structure reveals its adeptness in recognizing telomeric DNA, providing insights into molecular mechanisms.
RAP1’s different domains and C-Terminal tail orchestrate specific interactions with Telomeric DNA, where interactions such as H-bonds and hydrophobic interactions are species-specific.
Let’s explore how this protein is able to effectively specify through a tango with the Telomeric DNA sequence and react to subtle differences in its structure!
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