Double Electron–Electron Resonance (DEER): A Convenient Method To Probe DNA Conformational Changes

Abstract

Oh DEER! The DEER technique is capable of detecting even slight conformational changes in site-directed spin-labeled DNA structures, which are extremely difficult to measure by more classical methods. The B–A transition (see picture) in DNA duplexes is induced by trifluoroethanol. DEER can be applied to the study of modifications of DNA induced by various agents.