This server predicts DNA curvature from DNA sequences. The curvature is calculated as a vector sum of dinucleotide geometries (roll, tilt and twist angles) using the BEND algorithm of Godsell and Dickerson, and expressed as degrees per helical turn (10.5 °/helical turn = 1 °/basepair).
This calculation - like all predictions - is approximate. Experimentaly tested curved motifs produce curvature values of 5 to 25 °/helical turn, while straight motifs give values below 5 °/helical turn.
Basic concepts, references and tips for evaluation are provided, along with short examples.
The results are presented in several forms:
1-D sequence plot, in which the curvature and the flexibility or GC content are plotted along the DNA sequence with options to smooth the plot
2-D plot, in which the curvature is plotted against flexibility or GC content
ASCII (text only) tabulated output of calculated values, sent by e-mail.
© 1998 Andrei Gabrielian, Kristian Vlahovicek & Sándor Pongor