Abstract
Using magnetic tweezers, we study in real time the condensation of single DNA molecules under tension. We find that DNA condensation occurs via discrete nucleated events. By measuring the influence of an imposed twist, we show that condensation is initiated by the formation of a plectonemic supercoil. This demonstrates a strong interplay between the condensation transition and externally imposed mechanical constraints.
- Received 22 September 2006
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.058103
©2007 American Physical Society