Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons™
Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 1 of 1
Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics
Towards An Understanding Of The Role Of Cation Packaging On Dna Protection From Oxidative Damage, Cody E. Gay
Towards An Understanding Of The Role Of Cation Packaging On Dna Protection From Oxidative Damage, Cody E. Gay
Theses and Dissertations--Chemistry
In sperm chromatin, DNA exists in a highly condensed state reaching a final volume roughly twenty times that of a somatic nucleus. For the vast majority (>90%) of sperm DNA in mammals, somatic-like histones are first replaced by transition proteins which in turn are replaced by arginine-rich protamines. This near crystalline organization of the DNA in mature sperm is thought crucial for both the transport and protection of genetic information since all DNA repair mechanisms are shut down. Recent studies show that increased DNA damage is linked to dysfunctions in replacing histones with protamines resulting in mispackaged DNA. This …