Traffic on DNA: interplay between RNA polymerases and DNA-bound proteins

细胞内的DNA不仅是信息的储存库，而且是如何使用这些信息的积极参与者。蛋白质结合到DNA上的特定位置以控制哪些基因是活跃的，并且基因由RNA聚合酶表达，RNA聚合酶沿着DNA。RNA聚合酶和DNA结合蛋白质之间的碰撞可以去除蛋白质或阻断聚合酶。这些基本过程如何在DNA上安全共存？该项目旨在整合系统实验，使用定义明确的遗传成分和数学建模来了解DNA和蛋白质的“设计”特征，以最大限度地减少这些交通问题。更好的理解可以为操纵基因表达的新策略提供信息。

The DNA inside the cell is not just a repository of information, but is an active player in how that information is used. Proteins bind to defined locations on the DNA to control which genes are active, and genes are expressed by RNA polymerases that track along the DNA. Collisions between RNA polymerases and DNA-bound proteins can remove the proteins or block the polymerase. How can these essential processes safely coexist on the DNA? The project aims to integrate systematic experiments using well-defined genetic components and mathematical modelling to understand the 'design' features of DNA and proteins that minimise these traffic problems. A better understanding could inform new strategies for manipulation of gene expression.