Abstract
The genes that encode immunoglobulin and T cell receptor proteins are assembled from component gene segments in a reaction known as V(D)J recombination. The reaction, and its crucial mediators RAG1 and RAG2, are essential for lymphocyte development and hence for adaptive immunity. Here we consider the biochemistry of this reaction, focusing on the DNA transactions and the proteins involved. We discuss how the RAG proteins interact with DNA and how coordinate cleavage of the DNA at two sites might be achieved. Finally, we consider the RAG proteins and V(D)J recombination from an evolutionary point of view.
Publication types
-
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
-
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
-
Review
MeSH terms
-
Animals
-
B-Lymphocytes / physiology*
-
Cell Line
-
DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
-
DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism
-
Evolution, Molecular
-
Genes, Immunoglobulin*
-
Genes, T-Cell Receptor*
-
Homeodomain Proteins / genetics
-
Homeodomain Proteins / metabolism
-
Humans
-
Mice
-
Nuclear Proteins / genetics
-
Nuclear Proteins / metabolism
-
Recombination, Genetic*
-
T-Lymphocytes / physiology*
-
VDJ Recombinases* / genetics
-
VDJ Recombinases* / metabolism
Substances
-
DNA-Binding Proteins
-
Homeodomain Proteins
-
Nuclear Proteins
-
RAG2 protein, human
-
RAG-1 protein
-
VDJ Recombinases