Chromosome Biochemistry Laboratory

Murayama Group

Uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying chromosome function through biochemical reconstitution.

Faculty

MURAYAMA, Yasuto
Associate Professor

ystmurayama@nig.ac.jp

researchmap

KUROKAWA, Yumiko
Assistant Professor

ykurokaw@nig.ac.jp

researchmap

 Lab HP

Research Summary

Controlling chromosome structure is essential not only for faithful chromosome segregation but also for gene transcription and DNA replication and repair. Ring-shaped SMC complexes (cohesin, condensin and SMC5/6) are central architects of the chromosome structure. These large complexes topologically entrap DNA strands to allow vital chromosomal functions to be carried out. We have successfully purified the SMC1/3 complex and reconstituted its functional DNA binding reaction. Our aim is to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which SMC complexes regulate the chromosome structure.

A. A molecular model how cohesin complex mediates sister chromatid cohesion.
B. Purified cohesin proteins.
C, D. Biochemical reconstitution of topological DNA loading by the cohesin ring.

Selected Publications

  • Murayama Y. Sister chromatid cohesion through the lens of biochemical experiments. Curr Opin Cell Biol. 2025 Jan 28;93:102464.
  • Murayama Y, Endo S, Kurokawa Y, Kurita A, Iwasaki S, Araki H. Coordination of cohesin and DNA replication observed with purified proteins. Nature. 2024 Feb;626(7999):653-660.
  • Kurokawa Y, Murayama Y. DNA Binding by the Mis4Scc2 Loader Promotes Topological DNA Entrapment by the Cohesin Ring. Cell Rep. 2020 Nov 10;33(6):108357.
  • Murayama Y, Samora CP, Kurokawa Y, Iwasaki H, Uhlmann F. Establishment of DNA-DNA Interactions by the Cohesin Ring. Cell. 2018 Jan 25;172(3):465-477. e15.