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Single–molecule tests on DNA in a magnetic tweezer experiment allow the molecule to be stretched and twisted. Under increasing twist the DNA buckles locally and forms a ply (plectoneme) which grows at right–angles to the loading axis. Interpreting this in terms of elastic–rod theory allows the estimation of important parameters of the molecule.
Single–molecule tests on DNA in a magnetic tweezer experiment allow the molecule to be stretched and twisted. Under increasing twist the DNA buckles locally and forms a ply (plectoneme) which grows at right–angles to the loading axis. Interpreting this in terms of elastic–rod theory allows the estimation of important parameters of the molecule.Certain enzymes, the topoisomerases, play an important role in the human cell by cutting the long strands of DNA to release excessive torsional stresses. If these are added to the experimental environment, individual cuts can be observed, giving vital clues as to how the enzymes operate. We shall examine in some detail the energy changes that can be induced by two types of topoisomerase.
- Speaker
- Professor JMT Thompson FRS, University of Aberdeen
- Venue
- Seminar Room, Fraser Noble Building