RAD21 binds the SMC proteins, SCC3 can also associate with RAD21. When RAD21 binds on both SMC1 and SMC3, the cohesin complex forms a closed ring structure. The interfaces between the SMC subunits and RAD21 can open to allow DNA to pass in and out of the cohesin ring.

A structure of the entire cohesin complex has been solved using cryo-electron microscopy. Key findings from the structural studies include:

# Ring Architecture. Cohesin forms a tripartite ring where the SMC proteins (SMC1 and SMC3) dimerize via their hinge

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