Abstract

Circular DNA in viruses and bacteria is often knotted. While mathematically problematic, the determination of the knot size is crucial for the study of the physical and biological behaviour of long macromolecules. Here, we review work on the size distribution of these knots under equilibrium conditions. We discuss knot localization in good and poor solvents, or in polymers that are adsorbed on a surface. We also discuss recent evidence that knot size is a crucial quantity in relaxation processes of knotted polymers.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.