Structural characterization of a variety of DNA polymerases has likened the polymerase domain to a hand that grasps DNA with functional subdomains referred to as fingers, palm and thumb. The solution structure of the African swine fever virus DNA polymerase X indicates that it does not have a hand-like architecture and suggests a mechanism by which the polymerase may compensate for the lack of a dedicated DNA binding subdomain.
- William A. Beard
- Samuel H. Wilson