Z-DNA

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Z-DNA

Z-DNA (/ˈziː diːɛnˈeɪ/) is one of the many possible double helical structures that DNA can adopt. It is a left-handed double helical structure, unlike the right-handed B-DNA and A-DNA forms.

Etymology

The term "Z-DNA" is derived from the zig-zag shape of its backbone. The "Z" in Z-DNA stands for "zig-zag", which describes the path of the sugar-phosphate backbone in this form of DNA.

Structure

Z-DNA is a high-energy form of DNA that appears to be favored in certain functional contexts, such as during active transcription. It is characterized by a left-handed helical twist, unlike the more common right-handed B-DNA form. This unusual structure is stabilized by the presence of certain sequences of base pairs.

Function

The biological function of Z-DNA is not fully understood, but it is thought to play a role in the regulation of transcription, the first step of gene expression. Some proteins have been found to bind specifically to Z-DNA, suggesting that Z-DNA may perform specific functions in the cell.

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