In this project, we will investigate chromosome architecture by integrating theoretical modelling, numerical simulations, and the analysis of experimental data.

An exciting journey ahead — I look forward to our collaboration.

#statistical_physics #polymers #chromatin #MD_simulations

Collaboration with Midas Segers @pol-kuleuven.bsky.social, Enrico Skoruppa and Helmut Schiessel @poldresden.bsky.social (4/4)

In these experiments a single DNA molecule is attached to a solid surface and to a bead which is pulled and rotated by magnetic fields. Our paper develops a theory of multiplectonemes formation in stretched and twisted DNA, which is in excellent agreement with simulations. (3/4)

Plectonemes are supercoiled structures that form when DNA is overwound (or underwound). They help DNA fit in tight space and play an important role in gene regulation. The figure illustrates plectonemes forming in DNA under torque and tension as in magnetic tweezers in vitro experiments. (2/4)

Now, 20+ years later, our lab revisits the hinge using the anti-plasmid SMC complex Wadjet. We show that the SMC hinge is a DNA gate—an obstacle bypass gate selective for ssDNA, used to navigate chromosomal barriers during DNA loop extrusion.