ChemBioChem 2019, 20, 860 – 871
The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) belongs to the
X family of DNA polymerases. This unusual polymerase catalyzes
the template-independent addition of random nucleotides
on 3’-overhangs during V(D)J recombination. The biological
function and intrinsic biochemical properties of the TdT have
spurred the development of numerous oligonucleotide-based
tools and methods, especially if combined with modified nucleoside
triphosphates. Herein, we summarize the different applications
stemming from the incorporation of modified nucleotides
by the TdT. The structural, mechanistic, and biochemical
properties of this polymerase are also discussed.