Arūnas Šilanskas

Viral SSB-bound ssDNA activates the bacterial anti-phage defense system DARNA

This study shows that viral SSB-bound ssDNA activates the bacterial anti-phage defense system DARNA by recognizing a signal promoted by viral proteins, enabling broad virus detection without auto-immunity.

Structural insights into Cas9-mediated prespacer selection in CRISPR-Cas adaptation

This study reveals the structure of the type II-A CRISPR-Cas prespacer selection supercomplex and elucidates the role of Csn2 in Cas9-mediated spacer acquisition.

Deoxydinucleotides activate the bacterial anti-phage defense system ApeA

The paper shows that deoxydinucleotides activate the bacterial anti-phage defense system ApeA by binding to a conserved pocket, enabling broad protection against phage infection.

Activation of SPARDA defense system by filament assembly reveals beta-relay signaling mechanism widespread in prokaryotic Argonautes

The paper reveals a beta-relay signaling mechanism in prokaryotic Argonautes that activates the SPARDA defense system to degrade invading DNA and host DNA, preventing plasmid spread.

Short prokaryotic Argonautes provide defence against invading mobile genetic elements through NAD+ depletion

The paper shows short prokaryotic Argonautes, when associated with Sir2, deplete NAD+ to defend against invading DNA.