Modeling the mechano-chemistry of the \phi 29 DNA translocation motor

TL;DR

This paper develops a stochastic model of the 9 DNA translocation motor that reproduces experimental behaviors and evaluates its power and efficiency, revealing that maximum power does not coincide with maximum efficiency.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel stochastic flashing potential model for the 9 DNA motor, providing insights into its dynamics, power, and efficiency.

Findings

Model reproduces detailed trajectories and steps

Maximum power does not align with maximum efficiency

Provides a framework for future experimental design

Abstract

We present a study of the DNA translocation of the bacteriophage \phi 29 packaging molecular motor. From the experimental available information we present a model system based in an stochastic fashing potential, which reproduces the experimental observations such as: detailed trajectories, steps and substeps, spatial correlation, and velocity. Moreover the model allows the evaluation of power and efficiency of this motor. We have found that the maximum power regime does not correspond with that of the maximum efficiency. These informations can stimulate further experiments.