MCM7 Human

MCM7 is a component of the MCM complex (MCM2-7), which forms a hexameric ring structure that binds to DNA. This complex acts as a replication licensing factor, ensuring that DNA replication occurs only once per cell cycle. MCM7 has two main isoforms:

• Isoform 1: Consists of 719 amino acids.
• Isoform 2: Consists of 543 amino acids.

Both isoforms contain a conserved MCM domain in the C-terminal region, which is critical for their function .

MCM7 is ubiquitously expressed in various tissues and is localized in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. The nuclear import of MCM proteins occurs as a complex, highlighting their coordinated function in DNA replication .

MCM7, as part of the MCM complex, functions as a DNA helicase. This activity is essential for the unwinding of DNA strands, allowing the replication machinery to access the DNA template. The recruitment of CDC45 and GINS is required for the helicase activity of the MCM complex, forming the CMG complex (CDC45-MCM-GINS), which is crucial for the initiation and elongation phases of DNA replication .

MCM7 is implicated in cancer development and progression. Increased levels of MCM7 are associated with high aggressiveness and poor clinical outcomes in several cancer types, including bladder, breast, and lung cancers. The high transcriptional expression of MCM7 in these cancers correlates with low survival rates, making it a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker .

Recombinant MCM7 is produced using various expression systems, such as Escherichia coli. The recombinant protein retains its ATPase and DNA helicase activities, making it functional in vitro. This recombinant form is used in research to study the protein’s structure, function, and interactions .