Atomic structure of a phage DNA translocating conduit

The Fane and Rossmann groups (U. of A. and Purdue University, respectively) solved the first atomic structure of a virally encoded, DNA translocating conduit. Ten copies of the øX174 DNA pilot protein form a 170 angstrom long, alpha-helical tube with biophysical properties ideal for genome transport. Upon cell contact, the conduit emerges from the virus. After DNA delivery, the conduit dissociates within the cell wall. Thus, this structure is highly ephemeral. Read more in Nature and on UA News.