NCIt definition : Ribonucleotide Reductase is a heterodimeric cytoplasmic enzyme essential in dividing
cells that reduces ribonucleotides to deoxyribonucleotide precursors for DNA synthesis
in S phase. It consists of two subunits, M1 Chain and M2 Chain. Complex allosteric
control, mediated by deoxynucleoside triphosphates, and by ATP bound to the M1 subunit
prevents DNA replication and cell proliferation. A substrate specificity site and
a catalytic activity site regulate enzyme activity. A substrate-binding catalytic
site on M1 is only formed in the presence of M2. Enzyme activity closely correlates
with the cellular rate of growth and appears to vary with the cell cycle. (NCI);