Structure of RecBCD enzyme bound to DNA and a “signal
transduction” model for the Chi-dependent alteration of RecBCD enzyme. (a) The
crystal structure of RecBCD bound to hairpin-shaped DNA (PDB entry 1W36) [18]. The RecB polypeptide is orange, RecC is blue, and
RecD is green. In this structure, the 3′-ended strand would encounter the RecB
nuclease domain upon exiting the RecC tunnel, in which Chi is likely recognized. (b) A
“signal transduction” model for the Chi-dependent change of RecBCD [17]. When Chi is in the RecC tunnel (yellow disk), it
prompts RecC to signal RecD to stop unwinding, which in turn signals RecB to nick the
3′-ended strand of DNA near Chi and to begin loading RecA.