RAD51 Paralogs Unite to Scaffold DNA Repair Filaments

Researchers show that all five RAD51 paralogs can assemble into two distinct, ATP-dependent assemblies: a BCDX2-CX3 loader that templates RAD51 filament formation on ssDNA, and a RAD51B-independent DX2-CX3 anchor that caps and stabilizes the filament; together, these modular assemblies define loader vs. anchor roles in homologous recombination and illuminate disease-causing mutations.