Esc2 promotes Mus81 complex-activity via its SUMO-like and DNA binding domains

Replication across damaged DNA templates is accompanied by transient formation of sister chromatid junctions (SCJs). Cells lacking Esc2, an adaptor protein containing no known enzymatic domains, are defective in the metabolism of these SCJs. However, how Esc2 is involved in the metabolism of SCJs remains elusive. Here we show interaction between Esc2 and a structure-specific endonuclease Mus81-Mms4 (the Mus81 complex), their involvement in the metabolism of SCJs, and the effects Esc2 has on the enzymatic activity of the Mus81 complex. We found that Esc2 specifically interacts with the Mus81 complex via its SUMO-like domains, stimulates enzymatic activity of the Mus81 complex in vitro, and is involved in the Mus81 complex-dependent resolution of SCJs in vivo. Collectively, our data point to the possibility that the involvement of Esc2 in the metabolism of SCJs is, in part, via modulation of the activity of the Mus81 complex.