DNA polymerase ι of mammals as a participant in translesion synthesis of DNA

Biochemistry (Mosc). 2011 Jan;76(1):61-8. doi: 10.1134/s0006297911010081.

Abstract

This review describes the properties of some specialized DNA polymerases participating in translesion synthesis of DNA. Special attention is given to these properties in vivo. DNA polymerase iota (Polι) of mammals has very unusual features and is extremely error-prone. Based on available data, a hypothesis is proposed explaining how mammalian cells can explore the unusual features of DNA Polι to bypass DNA damages and to simultaneously prevent its mutagenic potential.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Polymerase iota
  • DNA Replication*
  • DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase / genetics
  • DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Mammals / genetics*
  • Mammals / metabolism

Substances

  • DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase
  • DNA Polymerase iota
  • POLI protein, human