Abstract
Taking the accurate theoretical solutions of Coleman and Swigon for a DNA plasmid in a plectonemic state under imposed link and responsive writhe, we examine in detail the working of the two types of cutting enzyme (topoisomerase Type 1 and topoisomerase Type 2). The mechanical processes involved can generate a plethora of outcomes, all assigning different levels of relaxation to the molecule. Alternative outcomes arise when there are co-existing (meta-) stable equilibrium states. Resolution of the outcome would then require a dynamic analysis of the relaxation process, though the Maxwell criterion can offer some guidance.
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Thompson, J. Cutting DNA: Mechanics of the topoisomerase. Eur. Phys. J. Spec. Top. 165, 175–182 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1140/epjst/e2008-00861-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1140/epjst/e2008-00861-1