ATP and the processivity of Xenopus laevis DNA polymerase alpha

Biochim Biophys Acta. 1984 Nov 22;783(2):158-65. doi: 10.1016/0167-4781(84)90008-3.

Abstract

We use specific restriction fragments as defined primers for DNA synthesis on single-stranded circular phage fd DNA. These structures are relatively poor templates for a highly purified DNA polymerase alpha from Xenopus laevis eggs. However, DNA synthesis is stimulated about 5-fold by addition of ATP to the reaction mixture. We show that the deoxynucleotide polymers, synthesized in the presence of ATP, are significantly longer than those produced in the absence of ATP. We also show that this effect is due to a more tenacious binding of DNA polymerase alpha to DNA and conclude that ATP increases the processivity of the enzyme.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine Monophosphate / pharmacology
  • Adenosine Triphosphate / pharmacology*
  • Animals
  • DNA Polymerase II / metabolism*
  • DNA Replication
  • DNA Restriction Enzymes / metabolism
  • DNA, Single-Stranded / metabolism
  • Female
  • Kinetics
  • Ovum / enzymology
  • Templates, Genetic
  • Xenopus laevis

Substances

  • DNA, Single-Stranded
  • Adenosine Monophosphate
  • Adenosine Triphosphate
  • DNA Polymerase II
  • DNA Restriction Enzymes