Exploitation of the genomic double-strand breaks to reduce the reproductive power of microorganisms

Abstract

It is shown how to take advantage of the frequent occurrence of double-strand breaks in the genome of prokaryotic cells, in order to reduce their high efficient reproductive capability. The analysis examines the physical status of the free ends of each break and considers how this status can interfere with an external physical apparatus, with the aim of undermining the repair processes. We indicate the biological consequences of this interaction and we give an approximate evaluation of the topological and dynamical effects that arise on the genomic material involved. The overall result suggests a significant reduction of the dynamics of the repair.