Researchers from Western University have discovered a protein that can stop DNA damage in its tracks, paving the way for potential breakthroughs in developing vaccines against cancer and crops that can withstand climate change. The protein, called DdrC (DNA Damage Repair Protein C), was found in Deinococcus radiodurans, a bacterium known for its ability to survive extreme conditions that damage DNA.
DdrC plays a crucial role in repairing damaged DNA, allowing the cell to fix hundreds of broken fragments into a coherent genome. The protein’s unique mechanism involves scanning for breaks along the DNA and snapping shut like a mousetrap when it detects one, neutralizing the damage and preventing further damage.
The team used the Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan to determine the 3D shape of DdrC, which revealed its ability to function independently without requiring other proteins. When added to E. coli bacteria, DdrC made them over 40 times more resistant to UV radiation damage.
In theory, introducing this gene into any organism could increase DNA repair efficiency. The potential applications are vast, including the development of a cancer vaccine and crops that can withstand harsh growing conditions. The researchers are just beginning to explore Deinococcus’ secrets, with many more potentially useful proteins waiting to be discovered.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2024-08-newly-protein-dna.html