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Elsevier, Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 4(23), p. 503-509

DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2011.12.023

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Molecular motors for DNA translocation in prokaryotes

Journal article published in 2012 by Jean-François Allemand ORCID, Berenike Maier, Douglas E. Smith
This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

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Abstract

DNA transport is an essential life process. From chromosome separation during cell division or sporulation, to DNA virus ejection or encapsidation, to horizontal gene transfer, it is ubiquitous in all living organisms. Directed DNA translocation is often energetically unfavorable and requires an active process that uses energy, namely the action of molecular motors. In this review we present recent advances in the understanding of three molecular motors involved in DNA transport in prokaryotes, paying special attention to recent studies using single-molecule techniques. We first discuss DNA transport during cell division, then packaging of DNA in phage capsids, and then DNA import during bacterial transformation.