Measuring processivity
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Updated: May 22, 2026

Direct Observation of Enzymes Replicating DNA Using a Single-molecule DNA Stretching Assay
Published on: March 23, 2010
Svein J Horn1, Morten Sørlie, Kjell M Vårum
1Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Aas, Norway.
Abstract:
Natural cellulolytic enzyme systems as well as leading commercial cellulase cocktails are dominated by enzymes that degrade cellulose chains in a processive manner. Despite the abundance of processivity among natural cellulases, the molecular basis as well as the biotechnological implications of this mechanism are only partly understood. One of the major limitations lies in the fact that it is not straightforward to measure and quantify processivity in what essentially are biphasic experimental systems. Here, we describe and discuss both well-established methods and newer methods for measuring cellulase processivity. In addition, we discuss recent insights from studies on chitinases that may help direct further studies on processivity in cellulases.
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