Radiation target analyses of DNA template/primer complexes.
Frozen solutions of low molecular weight DNA template/primer complexes, in the absence and presence of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, were irradiated with high-energy electrons. Molecules that survived the radiation exposure were quantified and analyzed using radiation target theory. Transfer of radiation-deposited energy was observed by the damage caused. It was found that damage (as a polynucleotide chain break) was observed in one chain when the radiation interaction occurred in the other chain, suggesting a transfer of energy. In contrast, the target sizes of the DNA template/primers were not altered if bound to HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, signifying that the deposited radiation energy is not transferred between protein and nucleic acid.
Sluis-Cremer
Nicolas
N
Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA. cremern@dom.pitt.edu
Kempner
Ellis S
ES
D017931:DNA Primers / Q000378:metabolism / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000378:metabolism / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D004735:Energy Transfer / Q000528:radiation effects; D054303:HIV Reverse Transcriptase / Q000378:metabolism / Q000528:radiation effects; D013698:Templates, Genetic
D017931:DNA Primers; D004279:DNA, Viral; D054303:HIV Reverse Transcriptase