When duplex DNA is altered in almost any way (replicated, recombined, or repaired), single strands of DNA are usually intermediates, and single-stranded DNA binding (SSB) proteins are present. These proteins have often been described as inert, protective DNA coatings. Continuing research is demonstrating a far more complex role of SSB that includes the organization and/or mobilization of all aspects of DNA metabolism. Escherichia coli SSB is now known to interact with at least 14 other proteins that include key components of the elaborate systems involved in every aspect of DNA metabolism. Most, if not all, of these interactions are mediated by the amphipathic C-terminus of SSB. In this review, we summarize the extent of the eubacterial SSB interaction network, describe the energetics of interactions with SSB, and highlight the roles of SSB in the process of recombination. Similar themes to those highlighted in this review are evident in all biological systems.

中文翻译：

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SSB 作为基因组维护复合体的组织者/动员者。


当双链 DNA 以几乎任何方式（复制、重组或修复）发生改变时，单链 DNA 通常是中间体，并且存在单链 DNA 结合 (SSB) 蛋白。这些蛋白质通常被描述为惰性、保护性 DNA 涂层。持续的研究表明 SSB 的作用要复杂得多，包括组织和/或动员 DNA 代谢的各个方面。目前已知大肠杆菌 SSB 与至少 14 种其他蛋白质相互作用，其中包括涉及 DNA 代谢各个方面的复杂系统的关键成分。大多数（如果不是全部）这些相互作用都是由 SSB 的两亲性 C 末端介导的。在这篇综述中，我们总结了真细菌 SSB 相互作用网络的范围，描述了与 SSB 相互作用的能量学，并强调了 SSB 在重组过程中的作用。与本综述中强调的主题相似的主题在所有生物系统中都很明显。