Chromatin-based DNA replication initiation regulation in eukaryotes

Abstract

The accurate transmission of genetic information is crucial for the reproduction and evolution of life. To ensure the faithful transmission of genetic information from parents to offspring, organisms have developed a precise DNA replication regulation system. In eukaryotes, during the G1 phase of the cell cycle, the Origin Recognition Complex (ORC) firstly recognizes the specific regions on the chromosome, and then recruits CDC6, CDT1 and MCM complex to form a pre-replication complex (pre-RC), which marks the replication origins. As the cells enter the S phase, the replication origins are selectively activated. The correct selection and activation of DNA replication origins are of utmost importance for the process of DNA replication. Here we describe the processes involved in the selection and activation of replication origins, as well as the epigenetic regulation mechanisms of DNA replication initiation in eukaryotic organism, with a particular focus on histone variants and modifications.