Table of Contents

Introduction to the Structure, Properties, and Reactions of DNA.
DNA Bending.
DNA Supercoiling.
Cruciform Structures in DNA.
Left-Handed Z-DNA.
Triplex DNA.
Miscellaneous Alternative Conformations of DNA.
DNA-Protein Interactions.
The Organization of DNA into Chromosomes.
Author Index.
Subject Index.

Promotional Information

Special Features
* Explains basic DNA Structure and function clearly and simply
* Contains up-to-date coverage of cruciforms, Z-DNA, triplex DNA, and other DNA conformations
* Discusses DNA-protein interactions, chromosomal organization, and biological implications of structure
* Highlights key experiments and ideas within boxed sections
* Illustrated with 150 diagrams and figures that convey structural and experimental concepts

Reviews

"Well written, authoritative, organized and comprehensive coverage of a rapidly developing subject. It is a very impressive compilation and one which will be useful to a wide audience. The book introduces the reader to the complex mosaic of DNA architecture-the A, B, H, Z, supercoiled, and the cruciform structures of DNA. The interconversion of these structures, together with the interaction with sequence and/or structure specific proteins provides the basis for the delicate orchestration of the flow of the genetic message within the cell. In vitro, [as well as] in vivo experiments are presented. The DNA structural findings lead one into the specific relevance of these forms in the vital functional processes-replication, transcription, genetic recombination and DNA repair-which are at the cutting-edge of research in today's leading labs. All in all, an excellent job of bringing together a multitude of diverse topics on DNA and packaging them nicely in a comprehensive, readable volume." --WILLIAM M. SCOVELL, Professor of Chemistry, Bowling Green State University

"Richard Sinden, a leader in the study of nucleic acid structure, has crafted an outstanding treatment of DNA structure and function. I found this work, particularly the excellent illustrations, very useful for preparing lectures on aspects of DNA structure that are not a part of my daily work. After reviewing an early version, I insisted that Sinden keep me supplied with the latest revision so I would have easy access to the information. In summary, I consider Sinden's book required reading for any graduate student interested in how DNA works." --KARL DRLICA, The Public Health Research Institute, New York, New York

"Richard Sinden has consolidated the newer information necessary to understand DNA function beyond the notion that it simply encodes information by its linear sequence. Here, in one place, Z-DNA, bending, supercoiling, triplex formation, the more esoteric matters of four-strand and parallel strand DNA, as well as other rarer forms, are described at a level accessible to advanced undergraduates and graduate students. The book focuses on DNA structures and conformations, but also treats the role of these DNA forms in protein-DNA interactions and chromosome structure. The book provides a solid introduction to these topics and will serve as a useful tool for investigators as well as students." --RICHARD I. GUMPORT, University of Illinois, Urbana

"Excellent work on an interesting subject. Recommended." --D. CARMICHAEL, Pittsburgh State University (CHOICE)

"DNA Structure and Function leads the reader from the early models of the double helix, through curvature, supercoiling, cruciforms, Z-DNA and triplex DNA to the more esoteric alternative conformations of 1995. It is quite a journey, and Richard Sinden is an informed and entertaining guide... This book provides a clear account of the basic principles of DNA chemistry and structure. The discussion of these issues would be useful for any introductory course in genetics or biochemistry... DNA is hereto stay. Buy a copy of this book to find out what DNA can do, and also what DNA might do for you." --TRENDS IN BIOCHEMICAL SCIENCES

"This book is a timely and comprehensive resource for any student or scientist interested in DNA structure and its biological implications." --UNLISTED DRUGS

"The book is an excellent text and presents, in a readable and very clearly illustrated form, the present view of DNA structure... This is a book for lecturers, taught-course postgraduates, and as a source book for undergraduates. It is a good value." --SOCIETY FOR GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY

"For lecturers and taught-course postgraduates this book is strongly recommended. It is an essential source book for advanced undergraduates in biotechnology and molecular biology courses. It represents excellent value." --BIOTECHNOLOGY APPLIED BIOCHEMISTRY