Site-specific recombinases: molecular machines for the genetic revolution

Olorunniji, F. J., Rosser, S. J. and Stark, W. M. (2016) Site-specific recombinases: molecular machines for the genetic revolution. Biochemical Journal, 473(6), pp. 673-684. (doi: 10.1042/bj20151112) (PMID:26965385)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

The fields of molecular genetics, biotechnology and synthetic biology are demanding ever more sophisticated molecular tools for programmed precise modification of cell genomic DNA and other DNA sequences. This review presents the current state of knowledge and development of one important group of DNA-modifying enzymes, the site-specific recombinases (SSRs). SSRs are Nature's ‘molecular machines’ for cut-and-paste editing of DNA molecules by inserting, deleting or inverting precisely defined DNA segments. We survey the SSRs that have been put to use, and the types of applications for which they are suitable. We also discuss problems associated with uses of SSRs, how these problems can be minimized, and how recombinases are being re-engineered for improved performance and novel applications.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:This work was supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council [grant number BB/003356/1].
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Stark, Professor Marshall and Olorunniji, Dr Femi and Rosser, Professor Susan
Authors: Olorunniji, F. J., Rosser, S. J., and Stark, W. M.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Molecular Biosciences
Journal Name:Biochemical Journal
Publisher:Portland Press Ltd.
ISSN:0264-6021
ISSN (Online):1470-8728
Published Online:10 March 2016

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record