Abstract
The second law of thermodynamics requires that directed motion be accompanied by dissipation of energy. Here we demonstrate the working principles of a bipedal molecular motor. The motor is constructed from DNA and is driven by the hybridization of a DNA fuel. We show how the catalytic activities of the feet can be coordinated to create a Brownian ratchet that is in principle capable of directional and processive movement along a track. This system can be driven away from equilibrium, demonstrating the potential of the motor to do work.
- Received 15 February 2008
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.101.238101
©2008 American Physical Society
Erratum
Erratum: Coordinated Chemomechanical Cycles: A Mechanism for Autonomous Molecular Motion [Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 238101 (2008)]
S. J. Green, J. Bath, and A. J. Turberfield
Phys. Rev. Lett. 102, 139901 (2009)
Synopsis
Molecular side step
Published 3 December 2008
Physicists present the mechanism of a DNA-based molecular motor that is fueled by a catalytic reaction and walks in one direction along a reusable track.
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