Novel structure at 5'-ends of nascent DNA chains.

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Abstract
Because of their association with protein, short nascent DNA chains in Escherichia coli may be separated from other cellular DNA by chromatography on hydroxylapatite. Protein-free DNA chains of < 500 nucleotides in length are resistant to degradation from the 5''-end by alkaline phosphatase [orthophosphoric-monoester phosphohydrolase (alkaline optimum); EC 3.1.3.1] and spleen phosphodiesterase (oligonucleate 3''-nucleotidohydrolase; EC 3.1.4.18). DNA chains containing > 500 nucleotides are degradable. Short nascent DNA chains are apparently structurally modified at their 5''-ends. The nature of this structure and its possible functions [initiation or elongation of nascent DNA chains] are discussed.