Single molecule force spectroscopy on ligand-DNA complexes: from molecular binding mechanisms to biosensor applications

J Biotechnol. 2004 Aug 26;112(1-2):5-12. doi: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2004.04.029.

Abstract

Recent developments in single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) allow direct observation and measurements of forces that hold protein-DNA complexes together. Furthermore, the mechanics of double-stranded (ds) DNA molecules in the presence of small binding ligands can be detected. The results elucidate molecular binding mechanisms and open the way for ultra sensitive and powerful biosensor applications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Binding Sites
  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • DNA / analysis
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / analysis
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / chemistry*
  • Elasticity
  • Ligands
  • Micromanipulation / methods*
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force / methods*
  • Molecular Biology / methods
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Physical Stimulation / instrumentation
  • Physical Stimulation / methods
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Conformation
  • Stress, Mechanical

Substances

  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • Ligands
  • DNA