Primary Level: DNA looping

We are characterizing sequence-dependent DNA looping dynamics. The ability of DNA to loop or DNA looping has important biological impact on gene regulation because it can bring distant sites closer or might facilitate nucleosome formation. The classical polymer model of DNA describes it as a stiff rod at short length scales, but many experimental observations on DNA conformations present a more dynamic picture.

Action of the fishing rod: Just like the material of the fishing rod affects its action (the speed with which the rod reacts to the fish), DNA sequence greatly affects its ability to loop.