HELIX TURN HELIX MOTIFS Meaning and
Definition
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Helix-turn-helix (HTH) motifs are found in DNA-binding proteins and are responsible for enabling the recognition and binding of specific DNA sequences. They are characterized by a common protein structural motif, consisting of two α-helices connected by a short turn or loop region.
The first α-helix, known as the recognition helix, interacts directly with the DNA major groove, making base-specific contacts with the nucleotide sequences of the DNA. This helix is typically about 15-20 amino acids long and displays a characteristic structural arrangement, often resembling a coiled structure. The second α-helix, termed the stabilization helix, lies parallel to the recognition helix and helps to stabilize the overall structure as well as facilitating the positioning of the recognition helix for optimal DNA binding.
HTH motifs are commonly found in transcription factors, which regulate gene expression by binding to specific DNA sequences and either activating or repressing the transcription of specific genes. The DNA-binding specificity of HTH motifs arises mainly from the interactions between the recognition helix and the DNA base pairs in the major groove. Variations in amino acid residues within the recognition helix determine the specific DNA sequence that can be recognized and bound by the protein.
Overall, helix-turn-helix motifs are essential for the transcriptional regulation of genes by guiding the binding of DNA-binding proteins to specific DNA sequences, which in turn influences gene expression and cellular processes.
Common Misspellings for HELIX TURN HELIX MOTIFS
- gelix turn helix motifs
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- hwlix turn helix motifs
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- h3lix turn helix motifs
- hekix turn helix motifs
- hepix turn helix motifs
- heoix turn helix motifs
- helux turn helix motifs
- heljx turn helix motifs
- helkx turn helix motifs
- helox turn helix motifs
- hel9x turn helix motifs
