Single-molecule studies of RNA polymerases

Jens Michaelis, Barbara Treutlein

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

Single-molecule experiments have already provided a wealth of quantitative and direct information about transcriptional structures and dynamics. For example, by imaging a transcription complex at various stages during the transcription cycle using an AFM, one can map its mechanical architecture. More detailed structural information as well as kinetic data of transient states of transcription or of reaction intermediates can be obtained from single-molecule fluorescence methods, in particular, single-molecule FRET measurements. Moreover, information about the nucleosomal barrier and its effect on transcription elongation come from AFM as well as optical tweezer experiments. Also, most recently, single-molecule studies have advanced to the complex environments of living cells, obtaining quantitative information about single-molecule events in real live situations. While the field of single-molecule transcription is still at its early stages, already a number of excellent review articles have appeared.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)8377-8399
Number of pages23
JournalChemical Reviews
Volume113
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - 13 Nov 2013
Externally publishedYes

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