Molecular knots in biology and chemistry.
Knots and entanglements are ubiquitous. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these fascinating topological entities can be either useful or cumbersome. In recent decades, the importance and prevalence of molecular knots have been increasingly recognised by scientists from different disciplines. In this review, we provide an overview on the various molecular knots found in naturally occurring biological systems (DNA, RNA and proteins), and those created by synthetic chemists. We discuss the current knowledge in these fields, including recent developments in experimental and, in some cases, computational studies which are beginning to shed light into the complex interplay between the structure, formation and properties of these topologically intricate molecules.
Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK. Faculty of Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE 1410, Brunei Darussalam.
Nicole C H
NC
Lim
Sophie E
SE
Jackson
D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D001703:Biophysics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D046911:Macromolecular Substances / Q000737:chemistry*; D008958:Models, Molecular
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D046911:Macromolecular Substances