Physics Colloquium, February 25, 2003

Mechanical constraints on gene expression: hints from single molecule studies.

Michelle D. Wang

Cornell University

Biological organisms must compactly store and yet efficiently read the huge amounts of genetic information contained in their DNA. Many DNA-based enzymes involved in these processes function as highly processive molecular motors capable of translocating over thousands of base pairs without detaching from the DNA template. These motors face mechanical obstacles to their movement, especially in the highly packed DNA of chromatin, and many of these obstacles are known to be important regulators of gene expression. I will discuss our recent progress towards understanding the mechanical constraints of gene expression using single-molecule studies.

3.30 p.m., Smith Laboratory, Room 1005

Refreshments served in Smith 1094 at 3:00 p.m.