Molecular Crowder-Induced Structural Transformation of the DNA Dodecamer.

ABSTRACT: Molecular crowding plays a crucial role in shaping the structural landscape of biomolecules, influencing their stability, interactions, and functional behavior. In vivo, these crowders include biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and metabolites within the crowded cellular environment, whereas in vitro, they are represented by various organic and inorganic molecules. Understanding how these crowders affect DNA conformation is essential for elucidating their impact on genetic processes. In this study, we explore how molecular crowders influence the structural transformations of a DNA dodecamer sequence using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. Specifically, we examine the effects of aspartame and polyethylene glycol (PEG-200) as crowding agents. Our findings reveal distinct i

SUBMITTER: Mathur N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12444521 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature