Set it free: DNA release from SMC complexes

Abstract

SMC proteins are major constituents of chromosomes from bacteria to humans. Cohesin and condensin are members of this family that play central roles in holding together the sister chromatids and compacting the genome, respectively. Over the past decades the field has witnessed great progress in understanding the mode of action of these ring-shaped complexes. We now know that they in essence act as topological devices that execute their functions by entrapping DNA inside their lumens. It will be key to unravel how these complexes entrap and release DNA to further dissect the mechanisms through which they control chromosomes. Here, we discuss the latest findings about cohesin and condensin’s DNA entrapment and release cycles in light of the results presented in this thesis.