Nature · 16 September 2026 · From issue 38
Cohesin reshapes replication fork contacts to aid fork slowing and reversal
A DNA-folding protein helps copying machines slow down safely instead of breaking under stress.
Daniel González-Acosta, Daniel Giménez-Llorente et al.
Cells have a backup system to protect their DNA copying process when it runs into trouble, like during cancer drug treatment. A ring-shaped protein called cohesin normally folds DNA into loops. Scientists found that cohesin also reshapes contacts between DNA copying sites when copying stalls. This helps copying slow down safely and reverse, instead of breaking apart.
Shows a cell-level mechanism, not a tested cancer treatment benefit.
Lab cell study only, no human treatment data yet.
Integrity screen: passed (3 checks) Checked 22 September 2026. Retraction record: none. DOI resolves at doi.org. Metadata record found (Nature). Read the source
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