Specialization among iron-sulfur cluster helicases to resolve G-quadruplex DNA structures that threaten genomic stability

Abstract

Background: The Fe-S helicase FANCJ implicated in Fanconi anemia plays important roles in DNA replication and repair. Results: FANCJ, but not the Fe-S XPD or DDX11 helicases, unwinds unimolecular G4 DNA. Conclusion: FANCJ is a specialized Fe-S helicase, preventing G4-induced DNA damage. Significance: FANCJ has a unique role in DNA metabolism to prevent G4 accumulation that causes genomic instability. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.