Breakthroughs into Molecular Machines on DNA and Chromatin

Genome replication and gene expression are carried out by macromolecular machines that exist at nanometer scale and generate piconewton forces. Challenged by the hierarchical chromatin organization and omnipresent thermal fluctuations, these DNA-based machines still accomplish their tasks with remarkable efficiency and accuracy. We leverage single-molecule techniques, particularly correlative fluorescence and force microscopy (smCFFM), to probe the dynamics and mechanics of replication, transcription, and chromatin machinery. These investigations have yielded new insights into the principles of genetic and epigenetic inheritance.

Key Learning Points:

• Learn how macromolecular machines operate at the nanometer scale
• New insights in understanding the genetic and epigenetic regulations
• Explore how techniques like C-Trap is used to probe the dynamics and mechanics of replication, transcription, and chromatin machinery