Abstract
DNA Repair Many cellular processes inadvertently cause DNA damage, so cell survival critically depends on high-fidelity DNA repair. In Escherichia coli , the protein RecA plays a central role in repairing damaged DNA. RecA forms filaments on the ends of broken DNA, which allow the DNA repair machinery to search the genome for homologous sequences for accurate repair of the DNA break. Rajendram et al. now show that RecA interacts with specific lipids in the inner plasma membrane of E. coli. This membrane scaffolding acts to store RecA in the absence of DNA breaks. It also helps to nucleate and stabilize RecA filament bundles when breaks form, promoting DNA repair. Mol. Cell. 10.1016/j.molcel.2015.09.009 (2015).
Highlights
Many corals have formed mutualistic associations with dinoflagellate symbionts, which are thought to provide nutrients and other benefits
To understand this difference in sex expression, Boualem et al identified a cucumber gene expressed in the female flowers. Mutations in this gene were associated with solely male flowers. By integrating this finding into a sex determination model, the authors explain how unisexual flowers can coexist in the same plant. — LMZ
Knowing that cyanobacteria have the capacity to produce long-chain alkanes and are abundant in surface waters, Lea-Smith et al set out to determine whether these bacteria are a significant source of hydrocarbons
Summary
Most flowering plant families have bisexual flowers with both male and female function. Most members of the Cucurbiticeae family, which includes melons, cucumbers, and gourds, have unisexual flowers. To understand this difference in sex expression, Boualem et al identified a cucumber gene expressed in the female flowers. Mutations in this gene were associated with solely male flowers. By integrating this finding into a sex determination model, the authors explain how unisexual flowers can coexist in the same plant. By integrating this finding into a sex determination model, the authors explain how unisexual flowers can coexist in the same plant. — LMZ
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