Direct Observation of Dynamic Interactions between Orientation-Controlled Nucleosomes in a DNA Origami Frame

The nucleosome is one of the most fundamental units involved in gene expression and consequent cell development, differentiation, and expression of cell functions. We report here a method to place reconstituted nucleosomes into a DNA origami frame for direct observation using high-speed atomic-force microscopy (HS-AFM). By using this method, multiple nucleosomes can be incorporated into a DNA origami frame and real-time movement of nucleosomes can be visualized. The arrangement and conformation of nucleosomes and the distance between two nucleosomes can be designed and controlled. In addition, four nucleosomes can be placed in a DNA frame. Multiple nucleosomes were well accessible in each conformation. Dynamic movement of the individual nucleosomes were precisely monitored in the DNA frame, and their assembly and interaction were directly observed. Neither mica surface modification nor chemical fixation of nucleosomes is used in this method, meaning that the DNA frame not only holds nucleosomes, but also retains their natural state. This method offers a promising platform for investigating nucleosome interactions and for studying chromatin structure.