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Overview
The basic structure of the DNA double helix has been recognized for many years, but more recently the existence and biological importance of different conformations of DNA have become known. The most prominent of these are the "topological" deformations such as supercoiling and catenation. Almost all biological processes involving DNA—such as replication, recombination, and transcription—have effects on, and are affected by, the topological state of the DNA. DNA Topology: In Focus provides clear, concise explanations of these concepts in their biological contexts, making it a valuable text for students of molecular biology, biochemistry and related disciplines, and for all researchers in this field.
Synopsis
In this complete update of their earlier edition, Bates (biological sciences, U. of Liverpool) and Maxwell (biological chemistry, John Innes Center) focus on new research while maintaining their commitment to make the topic approachable and interesting and providing resources for further reading in monographs and other literature. They begin by describing DNA structures, including the Watson-Crick model as well as the B, A, and Z forms and their role in DNA flexibility. They describe DNA supercoiling, including its quantitative measure and the geometrical properties of closed- circular DNA, the behavior of DNA on surfaces, knots and catenanes, DNA topoisomerases, and the biological consequences of DAN topology, including genome organization, replication, control of gene expression, transcription, and recombination. They also provide a helpful glossary. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR