Hyperstretching DNA

Koen Schakenraad (), Andreas S. Biebricher (), Maarten Sebregts, Brian Bensel, Erwin J. G. Peterman, Gijs J. L. Wuite, Iddo Heller, Cornelis Storm and Paul Schoot
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Koen Schakenraad: Eindhoven University of Technology
Andreas S. Biebricher: LaserLaB Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Maarten Sebregts: Eindhoven University of Technology
Brian Bensel: LaserLaB Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Erwin J. G. Peterman: LaserLaB Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Gijs J. L. Wuite: LaserLaB Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Iddo Heller: LaserLaB Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Cornelis Storm: Eindhoven University of Technology
Paul Schoot: Eindhoven University of Technology

Nature Communications, 2017, vol. 8, issue 1, 1-7

Abstract: Abstract The three-dimensional structure of DNA is highly susceptible to changes by mechanical and biochemical cues in vivo and in vitro. In particular, large increases in base pair spacing compared to regular B-DNA are effected by mechanical (over)stretching and by intercalation of compounds that are widely used in biophysical/chemical assays and drug treatments. We present single-molecule experiments and a three-state statistical mechanical model that provide a quantitative understanding of the interplay between B-DNA, overstretched DNA and intercalated DNA. The predictions of this model include a hitherto unconfirmed hyperstretched state, twice the length of B-DNA. Our force-fluorescence experiments confirm this hyperstretched state and reveal its sequence dependence. These results pin down the physical principles that govern DNA mechanics under the influence of tension and biochemical reactions. A predictive understanding of the possibilities and limitations of DNA extension can guide refined exploitation of DNA in, e.g., programmable soft materials and DNA origami applications.

Date: 2017
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02396-1

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