Understanding Bacteriophage DNA Packaging Motors
Author Information
Author(s): Philip Serwer
Primary Institution: The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
Hypothesis
Bacteriophage DNA packaging motors operate through a cycle of bind/release thermal ratcheting with ATP-dependent protein folding.
Conclusion
The study proposes a type 1 cycle for bacteriophage DNA packaging that explains the observed dynamics and mechanisms of DNA translocation.
Supporting Evidence
- Bacteriophage DNA packaging motors evolved before the prokaryote/eukaryote splits.
- Single-molecule nanometry revealed no rotation of the bacteriophage ϕ29 connector during DNA packaging.
- The proposed type 1 cycle includes a dwell phase where the DNA molecule does not move relative to the motor.
Takeaway
Bacteriophages use special motors to pack their DNA into tiny shells, and this study explains how they do it using energy from ATP.
Methodology
The study involved analysis of DNA packaging motors using single-molecule procedures and nanometry.
Limitations
The proposed model may not account for all variations in different bacteriophages.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website