Molecular genetics of RecQ helicase disorders.

Abstract

The RecQ helicases belong to the Superfamily II group of DNA helicases, and are defined by amino acid motifs that show sequence similarity to the catalytic domain of Escherichia coli RecQ. RecQ helicases have crucial roles in the maintenance of genome stability. In humans, there are five RecQ helicases and deficiencies in three of them cause genetic disorders characterised by cancer predisposition, premature aging and/or developmental abnormalities. RecQ helicase-deficient cells exhibit aberrant genetic recombination and/or DNA replication, which result in chromosomal instability and a decreased potential for proliferation. Here, we review the current knowledge of the molecular genetics of RecQ helicases, focusing on the human RecQ helicase disorders and mouse models of these conditions.

• Authors: K Hanada, I D Hickson
• Journal: Cellular and molecular life sciences : CMLS (Cell Mol Life Sci) Vol. 64 Issue 17 Pg. 2306-22 (Sep 2007) ISSN: 1420-682X [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 17571213 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Adenosine Triphosphatases
• Bloom syndrome protein
• DNA Helicases
• RecQ Helicases

Topics

• Adenosine Triphosphatases (genetics, physiology)
• Animals
• Bloom Syndrome (diagnosis, genetics, metabolism)
• Cellular Senescence (genetics)
• DNA Damage
• DNA Helicases (genetics, physiology)
• DNA Repair-Deficiency Disorders (diagnosis, genetics, metabolism)
• Disease Models, Animal
• Humans
• Mice
• Phenotype
• RecQ Helicases (chemistry, genetics, physiology)
• Recombination, Genetic
• Syndrome
• Werner Syndrome (diagnosis, genetics, metabolism)