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Ionic switch controls the DNA state in phage λ.

Dong Li1, Ting Liu1, Xiaobing Zuo2

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Phage lambda DNA transitions from solid-like to fluid-like states with increased mobility, enhancing infection. This transition is regulated by temperature and ions, crucial for viral replication in the gut.

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Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Biophysics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Bacteriophage lambda (λ) DNA is densely packaged within its capsid.
  • The physical state of packaged DNA can influence viral infectivity and replication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the temperature- and ion-dependent structural transition of DNA within the phage λ capsid.
  • To understand how this DNA transition affects viral infectivity and adaptation to host environments.

Main Methods:

  • Titration microcalorimetry to measure energetic changes.
  • Solution X-ray scattering to determine structural changes.
  • Manipulation of temperature, DNA length, and ionic conditions to induce and study the DNA transition.

Main Results:

  • A disordering transition of packaged DNA was observed, triggered by temperature, leading to increased genome mobility.
  • This solid-to-fluid like DNA transition significantly enhances the infectivity of phage λ particles.
  • The transition is regulated by ionic conditions and occurs at physiological temperatures (37°C), mimicking in vivo conditions.
  • This ion-regulated switch of DNA mobility impacts viral replication.

Conclusions:

  • Phage λ exhibits a remarkable adaptation to its host environment through a metastable DNA state within the capsid.
  • This DNA transition mechanism provides a new paradigm for understanding viral physical evolution and adaptation.
  • The findings highlight the interplay between DNA physical state, environmental conditions, and viral infectivity.