@inproceedings{13d52953fec4463689491e2a27286791,
title = "A method for quantifying the force dependence of initiation by T7 RNA polymerase",
abstract = "To access the genetic code to be transcribed to RNA, RNA polymerases must first open a {"}transcription bubble{"} in the DNA. Structural studies suggest that the minimal model of initiation by T7 bacterophage RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) consists of two distinct steps: initial binding, in which the T7 RNAP binds to and bends the DNA, and opening, achieved by {"}scrunching{"} of the DNA. Since both steps involve mechanical deformation of the DNA, both may be affected by downstream DNA tension. Using an oscillating two-bead optical tweezers assay, we have measured the lifetime of single T7 RNAP-DNA initation complexes under tension. Global maximumlikelihood fitting of force-dependent and non-force-dependent versions of this minimal model shows that there is no conclusively discernible force-dependence of initiation in the measured 0-2 pN DNA tension range.",
keywords = "Rna polymerase, Single molecule, T7 rna polymerase, Transcription initiation",
author = "Kalafut, {Bennett S.} and Skinner, {Gary M.} and Koen Visscher",
year = "2009",
doi = "10.1117/12.827659",
language = "English (US)",
isbn = "9780819476906",
series = "Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering",
booktitle = "Optical Trapping and Optical Micromanipulation VI",
note = "Optical Trapping and Optical Micromanipulation VI ; Conference date: 02-08-2009 Through 06-08-2009",
}