University of Leicester captures DNA unzipping molecule movie

Scientists at the University of Leicester have created the first "molecular movie" that shows how DNA unzips at the atomic level. This discovery helps us understand how cells copy their genetic material, which is crucial for life. Published in the journal Nature, the study used advanced cryo-electron microscopy to observe a helicase enzyme. This enzyme acts as a DNA unzipping machine, separating double-stranded DNA into single strands for copying. Dr. Taha Shahid, the lead author, explained that they recorded many snapshots of the helicase in action. This visual evidence shows how the enzyme methodically unwinds the DNA double helix. The researchers found that the helicase does not use brute force as previously thought. Instead, it operates like a finely-tuned engine using cellular fuel called ATP to trigger its action. It releases built-up tension, allowing DNA to unwind naturally, rather than pushing strands apart directly. This study also solved a long-standing question about how cells coordinate DNA copying in both directions. The team discovered that two helicase machines work together at specific DNA sites, forming "replication forks" for efficient copying. The research involved collaboration with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia and was funded by them. The insights gained from this study may help develop targeted antiviral therapies, as many viruses rely on similar helicase machinery to copy their DNA. The work represents a major advance in understanding molecular machinery. By determining how the helicase operates, scientists could potentially design synthetic devices that mimic this efficient mechanism for technological uses. Professor John Schwabe highlighted how their facility contributes to understanding the basic processes that support life.