Atypical recognition of particular DNA sequences by the archaeal chromosomal MC1 protein.

The MC1 protein is a chromosomal protein likely involved in the DNA compaction of some methanogenic archaea. This small and monomeric protein, structurally unrelated to other DNA binding proteins, bends DNA sharply. By studying the protein binding to various kinds of kinked DNA, we have previously shown that MC1 is able to discriminate between different deformations of the DNA helix.

Response of a DNA-binding protein to radiation-induced oxidative stress.

The DNA-binding protein MC1 is a chromosomal protein extracted from the archaebacterium Methanosarcina sp. CHTI55. It binds any DNA, and exhibits an enhanced affinity for some short sequences and structures (circles, cruciform DNA).