Scientists from the University of Copenhagen have found a previously unexplored function of a basic group of proteins called histones.

The discovery is said to pave the way for an enhanced understanding of how cells protect and repair DNA. It can also subsequently lead to improved treatments of diseases, including cancer.

Histones tightly bundle DNA strands, which are curled up like yarn balls inside the cells. Previous research extensively established the function of histones. Aside from packaging DNA strands, these structures are also recognized to play a major role in almost all mechanisms related to the DNA code, including possible DNA damage repair.

Histones have five types, four of which are called core histones. The tail-bearing structures are situated on the DNA strands just like beads and can sense DNA damage. Once impairment in DNA is detected, the core histones attract the proteins that can help repair the damage.

Situated between the curled up DNA strands is the fifth histone called histone H1. The function of this type of histone has not been comprehensively studied.

In the new research, the scientists determined the function of histone H1 by utilizing mass spectrometer, a modality created together with Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Protein Research experts.

The findings of the expert analysis showed that the fifth histone also aids in ordering the repair proteins.

Niels Mailand from the Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Protein Research said that research made all around the world aims to study core histones and its physiology. Not a lot of focus has been given to histone H1 because researchers are unaware of its impact on the process of DNA repair. He added that the discovery of histone H1's function is essential to the understanding of DNA-protective mechanisms of cells.

Mailand anticipates the study results to lead to enhanced international research about histone H1 and increased understanding of cellular modifications.

"The knowledge we generate can prove important to the development of more targeted treatments for diseases caused by cellular changes, including cancer," said Mailand.

Mailand thinks there is more work to do, comparing the research to opening a door that leads to an unknown place rich in exciting information.

The study is published in the journal Nature on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Photo: Stew Dean | Flickr