DNA Y structure: a versatile, multidimensional single molecule assay.

ABSTRACT: Optical trapping is a powerful single molecule technique used to study dynamic biomolecular events, especially those involving DNA and DNA-binding proteins. Current implementations usually involve only one of stretching, unzipping, or twisting DNA along one dimension. To expand the capabilities of optical trapping for more complex measurements would require a multidimensional technique that combines all of these manipulations in a single experiment. Here, we report the development and utilization of such a novel optical trapping assay based on a three-branch DNA construct, termed a "Y structure". This multidimensional assay allows precise, real-time tracking of multiple configurational changes. When the Y structure template is unzipped under both force and torque, the force and extension o

SUBMITTER: Inman JT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4245981 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature