DNA Topology

1: DNA structure
2: DNA supercoiling
3: DNA on surfaces
4: Knots and catenanes
5: DNA topoisomerases
6: Biological consequences of DNA topology

DNA as the genetic material is a topic of intense interest in the 21st century with the familiar and iconic Watson-Crick double helix having a vital importance for its function. However, there are further complexities beyond the double helix, including supercoiling, knotting and catenation, that are less widely appreciated and understood but which are critical to its function. This book explains these topological aspects of DNA structure in a clear and approachable style that will be appreciated by both students and researchers interested in DNA structure and function.

• Comprehensive but concise overview of DNA structure and function
• Clear and accessible explanation of complex topological concepts
• Describes the biological significance of the topological aspects of DNA structure
• Accompanying website provides ancillary material

Andrew D Bates, School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK, and Anthony Maxwell, Head, Department of Biological Chemistry, John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK