Abstract

The SF3 helicases, distinct from the more prevalent SF1 and SF2 helicases, were originally identified in the genomes of small DNA and RNA viruses. The first crystal structures of SF3 helicases have been determined, revealing a closer structural relationship to AAA+ proteins than to RecA, consistent with their participation in replication initiation. In conjunction with origin-binding domains, SF3 helicases are responsible for distorting DNA before replication forks can be assembled. At these forks, the SF3 helicases act as replicative helicases. The simian virus 40 SF3 helicase forms a hexameric ring, anticipated to be characteristic of the entire superfamily.