Johan Elf, Uppsala University, Transcription factor search kinetics at the level of single molecules
Probing transcription factor sliding in living cells
Transcription factors are believed to combine 1-dimensional (1D) sliding on DNA with 3D diffusion in the cytoplasm to find their specific binding sites fast and accurately. We have developed a single molecule assay that allows us to study the sliding process in living bacteria. We find that the lac repressor slides 45±10 base pairs on chromosomal DNA. Furthermore, DNA-bound proteins near the operator block sliding both into and out from the operator. This implies that TF kinetics can be modulated by proteins not interacting with the TF as long as they bind DNA within its sliding distance.
Location: Joseph Henry Room, Jadwin Hall
Date/Time: 04/09/12 at 12:00 pm - 04/09/12 at 1:00 pm
Category: Biophysics
Department: Lewis-Sigler Institute
