Helicase
Helicase
Helicase (/ˈhɛlɪkeɪs/ HEL-i-kays) is a type of enzyme that is responsible for unwinding DNA strands. The term "helicase" is derived from the Greek word "helix," referring to the spiral shape of DNA, and the suffix "-ase," which is used in biochemistry to denote an enzyme.
Function
Helicases play a crucial role in many biological processes that involve the separation of DNA or RNA strands, such as DNA replication, DNA repair, transcription, and translation. They function by breaking the hydrogen bonds that hold the two strands of the DNA double helix together, allowing them to separate and be processed by other enzymes.
Types
There are many different types of helicases, each with their own specific functions and mechanisms of action. Some of the most well-known include DNA helicase, RNA helicase, and RecQ helicase.
Clinical Significance
Mutations in helicase genes can lead to a variety of genetic disorders. For example, mutations in the gene for Bloom syndrome protein, a type of RecQ helicase, can cause Bloom syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by short stature, increased risk of cancer, and other symptoms.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Helicase
- Wikipedia's article - Helicase
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