Description: Helicase is a crucial enzyme in the DNA replication process, responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix to allow the nucleotide strands to separate and be copied. This action is fundamental for cell replication, as it enables each DNA strand to serve as a template for synthesizing a new complementary strand. Helicases use energy derived from the hydrolysis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to perform their function, making them motor enzymes. There are different types of helicases, classified according to their structure and mechanism of action, and they are essential not only in DNA replication but also in processes such as DNA repair and transcription. The activity of helicases is highly regulated, as improper functioning can lead to errors in DNA replication, potentially resulting in mutations and diseases, including cancer. Therefore, helicases are important not only from a biological perspective but also as subjects of study in biomedical research, where their role in health and disease is being explored.
