It was reported that RNase HII from Chlamydia pneumoniae (CpRNase HII) had RNase H activity on RNA/DNA duplex. We have analyzed the cleavage specificity of CpRNase HII on DNA-rN(1)-DNA/DNA duplex (rN(1), one ribonucleotide). Various mismatches were introduced into the DNA-rN(1)-DNA/DNA duplexes at or around the ribonucleotide. The mismatches of duplexes resulted in slower cleavage rates compared to the matched duplexes. Furthermore, a greater reduction in cleavage activity was observed for the mismatches located at or adjacent to the ribonucleotide. The mismatches at the same position of DNA-rN(1)-DNA/DNA duplexes have different impact on the cleavage rates of CpRNase HII depending on the types of mismatches. These findings may offer further insights into the physical binding and catalytic properties of CpRNase HII-substrate interaction. (c) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.