Structure-function analysis of SWI2/SNF2 enzymes
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

CD Spectroscopy to Study DNA-Protein Interactions
Published on: February 10, 2022
Harald Dürr1, Karl-Peter Hopfner
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Gene Center, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
Abstract:
Biochemical and structural progress over the last years has revealed that SWI2/SNF2 family chromatin remodeling or DNA repair enzymes are molecular motors that transport duplex DNA along a helicase-like domain using ATP-hydrolysis. The screw motion of DNA along the active site probably generates the force to disrupt chromatin or other protein:DNA complexes. In this chapter, we describe biochemical and structural approaches to study the molecular mechanism of SWI2/SNF2 enzymes. In particular, we describe assays to monitor DNA dependent ATPase activity, translocation on duplex DNA, and DNA distortion activity. We also describe recent progress in the crystallization and structure determination of SWI2/SNF2 enzymes in complex with duplex DNA.
Related Concept Videos
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to form...
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to form...
Enzymes
Enzyme deficiencies can often translate into life-threatening diseases. For example, a genetic abnormality resulting in the deficiency of the enzyme G6PD...
Nucleosome Remodeling
Nucleosome remodeling complex
Eukaryotic cells have specialized enzymes called ATP-dependent nucleosome remodeling enzymes. These enzymes...
The Supercomplexes in the Crista Membrane
ATP Synthase: Structure

