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Last updated on May 21, 2013 at 5:04 EDT
Model illustrating a Type II topoisomerase protein
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Model illustrating a Type II topoisomerase protein

May 7, 2010
Model illustrating a Type II topoisomerase protein encompassing a section of DNA (surrounded by a wreath of blue).

Topoisomerases are essential for untangling chromosomal DNA, which they do by cutting fragments and resealing them. As depicted by molecular models, pieces of DNA are ushered through the topoisomerase enzyme protein, which appears as a clamp with two sets of jaws at opposite ends, connected by multiple joints. This work was performed by James Berger.