Protects DNA from oxidative damage by sequestering intracellular Fe2+ ion and storing it in the form of Fe3+ oxyhydroxide mineral. One hydrogen peroxide oxidizes two Fe2+ ions, which prevents hydroxyl radical production by the Fenton reaction (By similarity). It protects DNA from hydroxyl radical-mediated cleavage. Binds DNA with no apparent sequence specificity without self-aggregation nor promotion of DNA condensation. Is unable to protect DNA from DNase-mediated cleavage.
"Bimodal protection of DNA by Mycobacterium smegmatis DNA-binding protein from stationary phase cells."Gupta S., Chatterji D.J. Biol. Chem. 278:5235-5241(2003)
Research Topic:Microbiology