Structural basis for DNA recognition and nuclease processing by the Mre11 homologue SbcD in double-strand breaks repair

In this study, crystal structures of the E. coli Mre11 homologue SbcD and its Mn²⁺ complex are reported and an ssDNA-binding model is proposed for SbcD that differs from those of other Mre11 proteins, providing insight into the catalytic mechanism of the repair of DNA double-strand breaks by the Mre11 complex.

The structural basis of urea-induced protein unfolding in β-catenin

Although urea and guanidine hydrochloride are commonly used to denature proteins, the molecular underpinnings of this process have remained unclear for a century. To address this question, crystal structures of β-catenin were determined at various urea concentrations.