main content

Prof. Stephan Gruber, University of Lausanne: SMC motors and switches in genome maintenance and DNA immunity

Speaker Series. Abstract: SMC and SMC-like complexes are essential for chromosome organization and genome maintenance across the domains of life. Recently, they have also emerged as key players in cellular immunity against foreign DNA. In bacteria and archaea, the Wadjet and Lamassu systems function in anti-plasmid and anti-phage defense, while in humans, the Smc5/6 and Rad50 complexes contribute to antiviral immunity. This dual role presents an intriguing paradox: how can the same, or closely related, complexes preserve chromosomal DNA while also recognizing and restricting extrachromosomal DNA? I will discuss current insights into the role of these complexes in immunity, including how core principles of SMC(-like) function may enable them to differentiate and respond to linear or circular forms of invading DNA.

Veranstaltungsdaten