title: DNA torsion as a feedback mediator of transcription and chromatin dynamics.
abstract: The double helical structure of DNA lends itself to topological constraints. Many DNA-based processes alter the topological state of DNA, generating torsional stress, which is efficiently relieved by topoisomerases. Maintaining this topological balance is crucial to cell survival, as excessive torsional strain risks DNA damage. Here, we review the mechanisms that generate and modulate DNA torsion within the cell. In particular, we discuss how transcription-generated torsional stress affects Pol II kinetics and chromatin dynamics, highlighting an emerging role of DNA torsion as a feedback mediator of torsion-generating processes.
authors.affiliation: Molecular and Cell Biology; University of California, Berkeley; Berkeley, CA USA.
authors.forename: Sheila S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Teves
authors.affiliation: Basic Sciences Division; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Seattle, WA USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute; Seattle, WA USA.
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Henikoff
mesh_terms: D002843:Chromatin / Q000235:genetics*; D004247:DNA / Q000235:genetics*; D004250:DNA Topoisomerases, Type II / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D014158:Transcription, Genetic / Q000235:genetics*
chemical_list: D002843:Chromatin; D004247:DNA; D004250:DNA Topoisomerases, Type II
keywords: RNA Polymerase II; nascent RNA; nucleosome turnover; topoisomerase; torsional stress