Dynamic flexibility in the Escherichia coli genome

Empirical rules based on tetranucleotide parameters were presented to predict the structural parameters twist (Omega) roll (rho), tilt (tau) and slide (D-y). A statistical mechanical model was used to analyze the flexibility of the Escherichia coli genome. The replication terminus region displayed a low level of flexibility. A strong correlation can be seen between G+C content and flexibility. Average flexibilities in the coding regions were found to be significantly larger than those in non-coding regions. The flexible characteristics in the 5'-neighborhood of the coding regions and in three class sigma promoter sequences in the E. coli genome were also analyzed. (C) 2001 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.