Transcription-induced conformational change in a topologically closed DNA domain

We have tested in vitro the occurrence of a B-to-Z transition in a region of alternating purines and pyrimidines as a consequence of transcription-induced negative supercoiling. By using a monoclonal antibody as a specific Z-DNA stabilizing agent, we demonstrate that the formation of left-handed DNA can transiently occur when a topologically unconstrained template is transcribed. The B-to-Z transition, observed in a subpopulation of templates, appears to be induced by negative supercoiling generated in the wake of an elongating T7 RNA polymerase. Consistent with this, the presence of topoisomerases during the transcription period prevents the change in DNA conformation. These data agree with the 'twin-supercoiled-domain' model for transcription of Liu and Wang (1). Interestingly, our results suggest that the diffusion rate of transcription-induced superhelical twists must be relatively slow compared to their generation, and that under in vitro conditions localized transient supercoiling can reach unexpectedly high levels.