Safeguarding DNA Replication: A Golden Touch of MiDAS and Other Mechanisms

DNA replication is a tightly regulated fundamental process allowing the correct duplication and transfer of the genetic information from the parental cell to the progeny. It involves the coordinated assembly of several proteins and protein complexes resulting in replication fork licensing, firing and progression. However, the DNA replication pathway is strewn with hurdles that affect replication fork progression during S phase. As a result, cells have adapted several mechanisms ensuring replication completion before entry into mitosis and segregating chromosomes with minimal, if any, abnormalities. In this review, we describe the possible obstacles that a replication fork might encounter and how the cell manages to protect DNA replication from S to the next G1.

Automated summary

DNA replication is a crucial process that requires the coordinated action of multiple proteins to permit, initiate, and progress replication forks. However, there are obstacles that can impede replication fork progression. Cells have developed various mechanisms to protect DNA replication and ensure its completion before entering mitosis.