Nanomechanics of biomolecules: focus on DNA

Nano-mechanical measurements and manipulations at the single-cell and single-molecular levels using the atomic force microscope (AFM) and optical tweezers are presenting fascinating opportunities to the researchers in bioscience and biotechnology. Single molecule biophysics technologies, due to their capability to detect transient states of molecules and biomolecular complexes, are the methods of choice for studies in DNA structure and dynamics, DNA-DNA and DNA-protein interactions, and viral DNA packaging. The aim of this review is to describe the recent developments of scientific tools and the knowledge gained in single molecule DNA mechanics such as DNA elasticity, electrostatics, condensation and interactions of DNA with surrounding fluids during its hydrodynamic flow.