Pulling genetic RNA out of tobacco mosaic virus using single-molecule force spectroscopy

J Am Chem Soc. 2010 Aug 18;132(32):11036-8. doi: 10.1021/ja1052544.

Abstract

RNA-coat protein interactions in intact tobacco mosaic virus have been investigated for the first time directly on the single-molecule level by pulling the genetic RNA step by step out of the helical groove formed by its protein coat. The effects of pulling speed and pH on RNA-protein interactions are presented. In addition, the rebinding behavior of the detached RNA with the protein coat is discussed. Our results demonstrate the possibility of studying nucleic acid-protein interactions in more complicated systems using AFM-based single-molecule force spectroscopy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Conformation
  • RNA, Viral / chemistry
  • RNA, Viral / metabolism*
  • Spectrum Analysis*
  • Tobacco Mosaic Virus / chemistry
  • Tobacco Mosaic Virus / metabolism*
  • Viral Proteins / chemistry
  • Viral Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA, Viral
  • Viral Proteins