Coordinated chemomechanical cycles: a mechanism for autonomous molecular motion

Abstract

The second law of thermodynamics requires that directed motion be accompanied by dissipation of energy. Here we demonstrate the working principles of a bipedal molecular motor. The motor is constructed from DNA and is driven by the hybridization of a DNA fuel. We show how the catalytic activities of the feet can be coordinated to create a Brownian ratchet that is in principle capable of directional and processive movement along a track. This system can be driven away from equilibrium, demonstrating the potential of the motor to do work.