Chapter 24, Problem 6P

Summary Introduction

To determine: The way through which Lk remain the same, however, it is given that every reaction of the topoisomerase would result in a change in linking number.

Introduction:

In a double stranded DNA, linking number is a topological characteristics, it does not vary whether the DNA is deformed or bent. It causes both DNA strands to remain intact. Linking number “varies” only if strands are rejoined or broken and if a DNA strand remains broken, then the molecule will no longer topologically controlled, and its linking number is “undefined”.